Alex Wood optioned to triple-A for Atlanta Braves

When word broke that the Atlanta Braves were set to activate relief pitcher Jordan Walden from the disabled list on Tuesday, there was a bit of debate as to who the team would remove from the active roster. When the dust settled, the Braves made an incredibly interesting decision to send stud left-hander Alex Wood back to the minor leagues by optioning him to triple-A Gwinnett.

Atlanta’s bullpen is undeniably strengthened by the addition of Walden, but the bigger story here is the long-term prognosis for Wood. The Braves have made it known that this roster move is the result of a long-term plan to “stretch out” Wood’s arm for an ability to start in the near future, but with no open spot in the current rotation, it makes for an interesting set-up for the 23-year-old.

During the 2013 season, Alex Wood has made seven starts in his 18 appearances, and he has put together a very solid 3.43 ERA over more than 60 innings of work. There is little doubt that Wood presents as one of the best five starting pitchers on the Atlanta roster, but with the recent stellar work of veterans Gavin Floyd and Aaron Harang, the move to send Wood to the bullpen also opens up the rumor mill with regard to a trade.

Stay tuned for all the latest on the status of Alex Wood, but for now, he’ll be lurking in the shadows of the minor leagues.