Braves Rumors: Strider’s historic pace, Soroka’s return effects, Red Sox trade target

Braves Rumors: Effects of long-awaited Michael Soroka return to Atlanta

The news that every Braves fan has been waiting for since Michael Soroka’s first Achilles tear in 2020 is finally here. The right-hander is set to make his first start for Atlanta since that COVID-shortened season in his initial injury, which was followed by another Achilles tear and near-countless setbacks in his return to the mound.

But what are the effects of Soroka’s return to the rotation, especially if he gets back and performs well?

The most obvious pair of effects for the Braves right now are what it means for the roster and rotation. With Soroka getting called up from Triple-A Gwinnett, Atlanta optioned Dereck Rodriguez, the son of Pudge Rodriguez, back to the Stripers. Moreover, you have to believe that Soroka getting this shot would mean that Dylan Dodd’s time in the majors might be done (for now) as Soroka would ostensibly take that currently vacant fifth spot in the rotation.

Beyond the roster moves, though, the return of Soroka could have massive effects on the MLB Trade Deadline. FanSided’s John Buhler touched on the notion that, if the right-hander comes back, stays healthy, and pitches well, that could change the scope of the deadline moves for the Braves in that they could conceivably avoid the starting pitching market, a position expected to be expensive at the deadline. Beyond that, it would also allow Atlanta to eye bullpen options more aggressively and perhaps continue to search for outfield depth.

In that same light, a quality return for Soroka would lessen the haste of getting Max Fried back in the fold, and perhaps Kyle Wright too, though that injury appears to be potentially more severe than expected.

The bottom line, however, is that the Braves getting Soroka back in the bigs — and even more so if he steps into that fifth starter role with quality stuff — puts the club in an even more advantageous position moving forward.