The Atlanta Braves received an encouraging update Monday as All-Star right-hander Reynaldo López resumed playing catch, marking another step in his recovery from left knee inflammation.
López was placed on the 15-day injured list earlier this month after knee discomfort interrupted what had been one of the best seasons of his career. His return to a throwing program is a positive sign for an Atlanta club looking to maintain its lead in the National League East.
The Braves entered Monday with a 68-51 record and an 8.5-game advantage atop the division, making López's progress especially important as the postseason race begins to intensify.
Sports Illustrated's Harrison Smajovits reported Monday that López was back playing catch as part of his rehabilitation process. The update represents the latest milestone in the veteran right-hander's recovery after inflammation in his left knee forced him to the injured list.
Before the injury, López had established himself as a highly dependable arm. The All-Star owns a 4-3 record with a 3.64 ERA, a 1.34 WHIP and 66 strikeouts across 71.2 innings this season.
His production has helped anchor the Braves' rotation behind ace Max Fried, making his eventual return a significant boost for a club with postseason aspirations.
Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
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Atlanta is also monitoring the progress of Ronald Acuña Jr., who continues a rehab assignment at Triple-A Gwinnett as he works back from a left hamstring strain. Meanwhile, the club recently released infielder Jorge Mateo to create additional roster flexibility.
While the Braves have not announced a timetable for López's return, Monday's throwing session represents another positive development as Atlanta hopes to have one of its top starters back before the stretch run.
