Atlanta Braves gave up way too early on Mike Foltynewicz

The Atlanta Braves shockingly designated Mike Foltynewicz for assignment after one start in 2020

In arguably the biggest surprise of the shortened Major League Baseball season, the Atlanta Braves pulled quite the stunner late Monday night when it was announced they designated veteran pitcher Mike Foltynewicz for assignment.

Known around the league as ‘Folty’, the 6-4, 195-pounder has been with the Braves since the 2015 campaign, but is now on his way out after making his first start of the season. Seriously? While this may seem like an opportunity for Atlanta to give some of its younger arms some time to shine in 2020, sending Foltynewicz packing so early just makes no sense.

The Braves DFA’d Mike Foltynewicz after he had an outing to forget against the Rays

The decision to DFA Foltynewicz came after he got roughed up by the Rays on Monday. In that outing, the righty lasted 3.1 innings, giving up six runs and three homers. Atlanta went on to lose the game 14-5 and saw its early season record fall to 2-2.

“After the last couple outings in (camp), we wanted to give it a go here and it was the same,” manager Brian Snitker said after the team announced the decision. “We didn’t see enough increase in the velocity. That’s who he’s been. He’s been a stuff guy for the entire time we’ve had him. The stuff hasn’t been there.”

While Snitker has been concerned with Foltynewicz’s velocity, making this decision after only one start feels like a head-scratcher. The veteran hurler went 8-6 last year with a concerning 4.54 ERA, but was also an All-Star the year before after winning 13 games and posting a 2.85 ERA.

Veteran pitchers with postseason experience don’t grow on trees either. Multiple teams are sure to come after Foltynewicz now that the Braves have decided he’s not in their plans for the rest of the season. This decision could be something Atlanta and Snitker regret in a major way later this year.