Braves Notes: Austin Riley updates Reynaldo Lopez and more

The Atlanta Braves started their home game on a high note with a 2-0 victory over the Chicago Cubs on Monday night. After the match, they received some good news regarding the injuries. An MRI on Austin Riley’s left side showed inflammation and he could return to the lineup later this week.

Riley left Sunday’s game against the Mets after experiencing soreness in his side. The Braves said they removed him as a precaution, but he still had lingering pain that led to an MRI. Zack Short started in place of Riley Monday night and drove in Atlanta’s first run of the game.

Reynaldo López update

Reynaldo Lopez had another solid performance on the mound but exited after the fifth inning and 71 pitches. Brian Snitker said after the match that Lopez’s back tightened up after the fifth round.

Despite his early departure, he is still expected to make his next start.

Bullpen decisions

With a 2-0 lead in the ninth, Snitker opted to join AJ Minter one night after missing a save in New York. Minter allowed the first two batters to reach on a single and walk, but then got a double play and a fly to end it.

After the match, Snitker said that he just wanted to give Raisel Iglesias and Joe Jiménez another day off after both had a heavy workload in New York. Iglesias threw 48 pitches and allowed two runs in two appearances Friday and Saturday. Jimenez threw 30 pitches Saturday.