Atlanta Braves News: Added Joey Wendle, Darius Vines optioned, more

The Atlanta Braves announced several roster changes ahead of Friday night’s game in Pittsburgh. Most anticipated was the recall of Ray Kerr, who was named to start the series opener. Next, the club placed AJ Smith-Shawver, who made his season debut on Thursday, on the 15-day injured list. Smith-Shawver was diagnosed with a Grade 2 oblique strain. Finally, the club announced that he had signed infielder Joey Wendle to a major league contract and in return had optioned infielder Luke Williams at Triple-A Gwinnett.

Wendle, 34, started the season with the New York Mets, where he played in 18 games. He recorded eight hits and one RBI before the Mets designated him for assignment. Defensively, he offers some versatility as he can play almost anywhere on the field.

To cap off the night, the Braves optioned right-hander Darius Vines after Friday’s game. He pitched three innings of relief before the move and was tagged with six earned runs.

More Braves news:

Ray Kerr got off to a disastrous start as the Braves lost Game 1 of the series to the Pittsburgh Pirates, 11-5.

Sean Murphy continues his rehabilitation mission and he once again homered in his second game with the Gwinnett Stripers. More information in the minor league recap.

Orlando Arcia hasn’t gotten off to an incredible start offensively, but his defense so far has him on track for a career-high season.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame Museum unveiled a statue of Henry Aaron, and his wife, Billye, had a lot to say about her journey with Hank.

Justin Toscano of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution discusses the latest adjustments from Aaron Bummer and Jarred Kelenic.

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MLB News:

The San Francisco Giants have signed left-hander Drew Pomeranz to a one-year major league deal. The 35-year-old has not appeared in the majors since 2021.

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred said robo-umps are unlikely for 2025. He said the earliest they could be implemented is 2026.

The Baltimore Orioles have placed right-hander Dean Kremer on the 15-day injured list with a right triceps strain. This decision is retroactive to May 21.

After the Baltimore Orioles placed him on injured reserve Thursday, left-hander John Means is headed for a second opinion. He was initially placed on injured reserve with a strained left forearm.