Braves Open To Bringing Back Medlen Despite Surgery

Kris Medlen appears to still be in the plans of the Atlanta Braves, who are strongly leaning toward bringing the right-handed pitcher back despite Tommy John surgery that cost him his 2014 season

More from Atlanta Braves

While no timetable is set for his possible return from Tommy John surgery, Kris Medlen remains in the long term plans of the Atlanta Braves, who are leaning toward bringing him back for the 2015 season.

Medlen, who missed the entire 2014 season due to an elbow injury that led to his trip under the knife, is slated to make nearly $6 million if the Braves offer him arbitration, yet it’s more likely the team will present Medlen with a incentive-heavy contract. He has made considerable progress, which has given the team a bit of hope that he could be ready early in the season.

The 29-year-old had a solid 2013 in which he recorded a 3.11 ERA while adding 157 strikeouts in 197 innings. Medlen was also selected as the National League Pitcher of the Month three times between August 2012 through September 2013.

Medlen’s recovery is key, as the Braves are expected to part ways with Ervin Santana, Aaron Harang and Gavin Floyd, although the team may consider bringing Harang back. It is also important in that the team will keep its salary near the $112 million range from last season.

Atlanta has $77 million committed to nine players, including $13 million the Braves are all but giving away to 2B Dan Uggla, who was released by the team during the season. They would a less than relieving $500,000 should Uggla and the walking air conditioner that is his bat signs with another team.

More from FanSided

Home/Atlanta Braves

Braves Open To Bringing Back Medlen Despite Tommy John Surgery

By Brandon C. Williams | Nov 10, 2014

More from FanSided