2 Braves who’ve earned an apology from their doubters, 1 not quite there
By Tim Boyle
2) Braves doubters can issue an apology to A.J. Minter
A.J. Minter’s season totals are still miserable but a change in his role for the team has been gigantic. The Braves have counted on him for years to get them big outs late in games. Believing he could be the team’s closer was where they made the mistake.
Minter is 3-5 with a 6.04 ERA through his first 30 appearances. Compared to the season-high 8.56 ERA he held after his May 1 appearances versus the Mets, it’s a huge plus to see him actually beginning to excel back in a setup role in front of Raisel Iglesias.
Minter has now gone six consecutive starts without allowing a run. In fact, he hasn’t even allowed a hit since blowing a save versus the Philadelphia Phillies on May 25. The Braves did still manage to win the game. Minter has even picked up another save.
The 2.92 FIP Minter has on the year is a good indication of some tough luck and a reminder of how inflated a relief pitcher’s ERA can suddenly get. Having already allowed 19 earned runs this season, Minter is beyond the 16 he gave up all of last year.
The earned run average is deceptive. In this non-closer role, Minter has gotten back to what Atlanta needed him to be. On behalf of everyone, sorry for ever doubting you.