Mike Minor could join Braves by end of week

If rehab game results meant anything, Mike Minor would likely not even be in the conversation to return to the Braves rotation.

As it is, the biggest thing to take away from rehab starts is whether the pitcher in question fell apart physically or not, and in Minor’s case, he seems to be ready. His most recent start for Double-A doesn’t look very pretty, with five runs, ten hits, and four homers allowed in seven innings – but he went seven innings. David O’Brien of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution says the Braves stay cautious but optimistic.

"The Braves could plug plug Minor into their rotation at the end of week, although manager Fredi Gonzalez said they would not make any decision until after he throws a bullpen in the next day or two. He is expected to take the spot of rookie David Hale in a rotation that’s been easily the best in baseball through the first nearly four weeks of the season."

The Braves rotation, despite injuries to Minor, Brandon Beachy, Kris Medlen, and awaiting a return from Gavin Floyd, has the best ERA in baseball, with a 1.68 (going into Saturday). The NL leader is surprise Braves starter Aaron Harang, who boasts a 0.85 ERA. David Hale had a 2.93 ERA going into Saturday’s game against the Reds, and he only helped his line, going 8 innings, giving up only two hits and one run in the win.