The Daily Chop: Win over Twins, Minor League delay, Freeman expectations, and more

The Braves beat the Twins on Tuesday, powered by a first-inning homer from Travis d’Arnaud, which opened the scoring. The Atlanta arms impressed, with notable performances from Ian Anderson and Kyle Muller. The outing from Anderson was hardly a surprise given his performance with the big club last season, but Muller is more difficult to predict. He has shown flashes of brilliance throughout his time in the minors, but often struggles with command. Those struggles were kept at arm’s length Tuesday as the towering Texan did not walk a batter while firing 1²⁄₃ scoreless innings. He allowed two hits, but struck out three batters to limit the damage. Outings of this nature can only serve to build the confidence of one of the most exciting arms in the system.

Braves News

Travis d’Arnaud smashes first-inning home run as Braves shut out Twins

As noted above, the Braves got early offense from their catcher and excellent pitching from everyone thereafter.

Minor League Baseball season likely delayed until May, per report

Minor League teams and players continue to get hammered by COVID precautions. It was announced on Tuesday that the season is likely to be delayed until May, which seems rather benign on the surface, but consider that many of these players have participated in a competitive game since 2019.

‘I’m coming for it’: Freeman has eyes on WS

Freddie Freeman wants to reach the World Series this season. I’d be willing to go a step further and say this: I hope the man wins the World Series this season.

Freddie Freeman raves about Cristian Pache: ‘He’s a special player’

In addition to admitting his desire to reach the World Series, Freeman also spoke glowingly about young teammate Cristian Pache.

MLB News

Yoenis gives glimpse of potential in showcase

In addition to the teams listed in this piece, there were reports that the Braves had officials in attendance for this showcase. The fit seems unlikely, but maybe the universal DH could make this pairing work?

Dyson returning to KC on 1-year deal (source)

A familiar face returns to the team that he helped to secure a World Series in 2015.

Tatis brings Slam Diego back with bat flip

The newly minted $340 million man has not forgotten how to mash.