BREAKING: The Atlanta Braves have just claimed right-hander Alek Manoah off waivers from the Toronto Blue Jays, marking a significant move for both the player and the team. Manoah, a former Cy Young contender, faced severe struggles this season, leading to his designation for assignment earlier this week.
Once a standout with a record of 9-2 in his rookie year of 2021 and finishing third in the AL Cy Young voting with a remarkable 2.24 ERA in 2022, Manoah’s trajectory has taken a sharp downturn. The right-hander was Toronto’s opening day starter in 2023 but struggled, going 1-7 with a troubling 6.36 ERA before being demoted to the rookie-level Florida Complex League in June.
After a brief return to the majors, where he went 2-2 with a 4.91 ERA in seven starts, Manoah was optioned to Triple-A in August and did not pitch again at any level. Last season, he managed a 1-2 record with a 3.70 ERA across five starts, leading to season-ending elbow surgery. Most recently, he pitched for Triple-A Buffalo, showing some improvement with a 1-1 record and a 2.97 ERA in seven starts, although he allowed six home runs in 27 hits.
To make room for Manoah on their 40-man roster, the Braves have transferred infielder Ozzie Albies to the 60-day injured list. Albies was recently diagnosed with a fractured hamate bone in his left hand, complicating the Braves’ roster situation as they aim for a strong finish to the season.
This acquisition highlights the Braves’ strategy to bolster their pitching staff amid injury challenges. Fans are eager to see if Manoah can reclaim his former glory in Atlanta, making this a developing story to watch closely as the season progresses.
Stay tuned for more updates as this situation unfolds, and see how Manoah’s integration into the Braves’ lineup could impact their postseason ambitions.
