Last week it was announced that Bryse Wilson would be named the Braves fifth starter, but that he wouldn't be on the Opening Day roster as the Braves won't be using their full rotation until the second time through.
In the final Spring Training game against the Red Sox Mike Soroka tossed 2 innings for the first time in a live-action setting since his Achilles injury.
92.9 The Game Atlanta Braves Insider Joe Patrick discusses just how soon Soroka could be back and what type of season he could have.
"From what I saw yesterday, pretty impressive the way he was able to throw the ball. I think he's going to come back sooner than a lot of oddsmakers think," exclaims Patrick. "I think he's going mid-April or late April, but they're pitching a bullpen game in the first rotation turn and I think it will be interesting to see if he's ready to pitch in the slot we're all expecting Bryse Wilson to pitch in. I wouldn't count it out."
Even if he doesn't return to take Wilson's first start, Patrick feels the Braves will find various ways to get Soroka back going sooner rather than later.
"I think he's coming back before the end of the month," continues Patrick. "If they do plan on him coming back sometime this month I also wouldn't be surprised if (relief appearance) is something they do go to."
The Braves open the season with a game Thursday against the Phillies, an off day on Friday, and then the conclusion of the series with games on Saturday and Sunday.
To hear all of Joe Patrick's comments before Opening Day, click here.