Braves option Matt Wisler to Gwinnett

The Atlanta Braves optioned Matt Wisler to Triple-A Gwinnett on Thursday after he allowed seven runs over five innings of work. Wisler has been in a deep slump and has saw his ERA balloon to 7.71 over his last 10 starts.

Braves manager Brian Snitker told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s Michael Cunningham that Wisler’s mindset was his biggest problem.

“I just look at his stuff and it’s just too good for that to keep happening,” Braves interim manager Brian Snitker said. “I think it’s a mindset as much as anything. You’ve got to believe in yourself, you’ve got to have confidence. You attack; you’ve got to be the aggressor.

“It’s a tough business. These (opponents) don’t care how bad you’re going. If they see any sign of weakness all you are doing is adding wood to the fire. He’s just got to get it right and be more aggressive, and you’ve got to make pitches.”

The Phillies tagged Wisler for five runs in the first inning on Thursday night. He allowed three more home runs and has allowed 16 over his last 10 outings. He has allowed at least six runs in each of his last four starts.

The Braves were in a similar situation earlier this season with rookie Aaron Blair who is still at Gwinnett and showing signs of turning his season around. Wisler’s stay in the minors could be a short one if he makes some adjustments but right now he is a shell of the pitcher that looked so promising at the start of this season.