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Mike Foltynewicz -- and not R.A. Dickey -- is now lined up to pitch when the Braves officially open up SunTrust Park on April 14th against the Padres.
Dickey was originally scheduled to make that start, but the Braves have shifted their pitching staff order. Foltynewicz will now pitch this Friday against the Pirates due to expected cold temperatures, while Dickey will throw in Saturday’s game.
Personally, I’d be pretty happy with the swap if I’m one of the 43,000 expected to be in attendance for the home opener. Foltynewicz received a lot of praise this spring for an improved demeanor and maturity on the mound, and some think he could be in for a big season now that he is fully healthy and recovered from a scary blood clot issue in 2015.
Foltynewicz will make his season debut tomorrow against the Pirates at 1:05 p.m. ET, weather permitting.