The Atlanta Braves’ bullpen continues to face setbacks, with reliever Tyler Matzek sidelined due to inflammation in his left elbow, as announced on Tuesday. Matzek, who missed the entirety of the 2022 season recovering from Tommy John surgery, has struggled since the start of this season. In 11 appearances, he has given up 16 hits and 11 runs across just 10 innings pitched. Although his fastball velocity this season has averaged 93.9 mph, similar to his 2022 level, it’s slightly lower than his 2021 performance by about two ticks. Over his last eight outings, Matzek has allowed 14 hits and 11 runs in a mere 6 2⁄3 innings.
The #Braves today recalled LHP Ray Kerr to Atlanta and placed LHP Tyler Matzek on the 15-day injured list, backdated to May 5, with left elbow inflammation.
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) May 7, 2024
To fill Matzek’s spot on the active roster, the Braves have recalled left-handed reliever Ray Kerr, whom they acquired from the Padres during the offseason. Kerr has seen action in nine games with Gwinnett, posting a 4.50 ERA, 6.41 FIP, and a 2.93 xFIP across 14 innings pitched. Notably, Kerr has racked up 22 strikeouts while issuing just five walks during his time with Gwinnett.
This injury marks the second setback for the Braves’ bullpen in less than a week, following Pierce Johnson’s placement on the 15-day injured list due to elbow inflammation over the past weekend.
