Manny Banuelos was supposed to pitch tonight. The Braves say his left shoulder inflammation is no big deal, but that’s what they always say. Considering Banuelos’ injury history, there’s reason to be concerned.
And there’s reason to be concerned about Julio, whose road struggles remind me of Smoltzie’s wretched first half in 1991. Like Julio, Smoltz was 24 at the time and had two promising seasons under his belt. I’m not sure what exactly is causing Julio’s problems but they seem more confidence-driven than anything.
Folty gets the start tonight, and from what we read he doesn’t take instruction well.