The Braves can't afford more struggles from A.J. Minter

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The Braves fell to the Red Sox 5-2 on Wednesday night after their bullpen coughed up the game. A.J. Minter struggled once again, and Dukes & Bell wondered aloud if a club with championship aspirations can keep running out a high-leverage reliever sporting a 7.50 ERA.

Minter began the season as the club’s closer as Rasiel Iglesias made his way back from injury. He struggled in that role as well, posting two blown saves and four losses.

If Minter cannot return to his dominant form, the Braves will need to consider acquiring another late-inning reliever as they head deeper into the season.

Featured Image Photo Credit: May 4, 2023; Miami, Florida, USA; Atlanta Braves relief pitcher A.J. Minter (33) throws a pitch against the Miami Marlins during the ninth inning at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-USA TODAY Sports