Kofi Inkoom
The Braves have placed right-handed pitcher Pierce Johnson on the 15-day injured list due to inflammation in his elbow, with the placement retroactive to May 1st.
To fill the roster spot, they’ve selected Jackson Stephens’ contract from Triple-A Gwinnett. Additionally, to make room for Stephens on the 40-man roster, left-hander Angel Perdomo has been transferred from the 15-day IL to the 60-day IL.
Acquired from the Rockies last season, Johnson had an impressive 0.76 ERA in 2023, leading to a contract extension with the Braves. While his performance hasn’t been as dominant in 2024, with a 3.00 ERA and a higher walk rate, he’s still been solid.
Despite his recent injury history, including forearm tendinitis in 2022, the Braves are hopeful Johnson’s elbow issue is just soreness. With a deep bullpen, they should be able to manage without him for now, relying on Stephens who hasn’t seen MLB action in 2024 but has prior experience with the Braves and Reds.
Stephens, who’s been in and out of DFA limbo due to roster moves, is out of minor league options. If his stint with the Braves is short-lived, he may opt for free agency before potentially re-signing with Atlanta.
Perdomo, recovering from Tommy John surgery, won’t play in 2024. Despite his injury, the Braves claimed him off waivers and are betting on his long-term potential, as he’s under control through 2028.