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Max Fried made his 2021 Grapefruit League debut for the Atlanta Braves on Wednesday and was impressive tossing four innings while allowing three hits and one run to go along with three strikeouts. Fried became the first Braves pitcher to pitch at least four innings this spring. It was a solid debut especially considering it came about a week late. Fried was scratched from last week’s scheduled start after a potential Covid exposure. He returned this week and despite the layoff, will be in the running to get the start on Opening Day.
“I think I’ll be more than ready to be ready to go when the season starts,” Fried said when asked about his spot in the rotation. “Whenever my name is called, I’ll be ready to go.”
More Braves News
When Cristian Pache took the field Wednesday he was wearing a new number on his jersey. Pache made the switch to No. 25 which is the same number that he wore throughout the minor leagues.
Braves outfield prospect Michael Harris has garnered a lot of attention so far this spring. The Athletic’s David O’Brien takes a look at Harris’ rise with comments from former Braves outfielder Marquis Grissom who thinks Harris will be special.
Also at The Athletic, Keith Law lists one prospect for each team that he is looking forward to seeing in person once the minor league season gets underway. For the Braves, that player is right-hander Victor Vodnik of whom Law raves about his smooth delivery.
Braves prospect guru David Lee spotlights right-hander Huascar Ynoa and how he has raised his release point this spring.
Jake Lamb is hoping to put his recent struggles behind him and to make an impact off the bench for the Braves.
MLB.com takes a closer look at every NL East club’s bullpen.
MLB News
Yasiel Puig’s deal with Atlanta fell apart last summer after he tested positive for COVID-19. He has been linked to several clubs since then but remains unsigned. The Athletic’s Andy McCullough takes a closer look at why.
The Texas Rangers are absurdly considering allowing 100% capacity attendance for their home opener on April 5.
The New York Mets may be without starter Carlos Carrasco for the start of the season. Carrasco is dealing with some elbow soreness and has stopped throwing.
The Cincinnati Reds placed first baseman Joey Votto on the injured list Wednesday after he tested positive for COVID-19.
Astros top pitching prospect Forrest Whitley will undergo Tommy John surgery and miss the entire 2021 season.
Remember Ian Krol? He is currently in camp with the Tigers and looking to make a comeback.