Joey

Devine

Devine has a 2.81 ERA and a 21/9 K/BB ratio in 16 innings since moving up to Double-A.

This even though he’s coming off his worst appearance at Mississippi (5 R, 1 ER in 1 IP on Thursday). Devine becomes the first 2005 draft pick to reach the majors. He’s a potential closer for the Braves, but he’ll probably be used in middle relief initially. Non-keeper leaguers may want to wait and see.

Devine was doing just fine until manager Bobby Cox had him intentionally walk Brian Giles, who was having a lousy day, with a man on second and one out in the 13th. Out of rhythm, Devine also walked Joe Randa before giving up the slam on a 1-2 pitch. It didn’t happen today, but Devine is going to have a lot of success in the majors.

Devine has been resting for nearly two months now. He could resume pitching in the minors by the end of the month, but the Braves probably aren’t counting on him making a positive contribution in the second half.

Devine has allowed one run in five innings since moving up to Double-A. It’s unlikely that he’ll join the Braves in September, but his recent performance makes him look like a better bet for the future. He could contribute out of the pen in 2007.

The Braves altered Devine’s motion to hopefully create less strain on his back. He will be brought along slowly and is doubtful to return to the team before the end of this season.

A couple of months ago, there didn’t seem to be any way Devine would return to the majors this year. However, since moving back up to Double-A last month, he had allowed one run and two hits in 11 innings. He struck out 20 and walked four during that time. The Braves probably won’t have him pitch in close games right away -- and they definitely won’t be bringing him in with the bases loaded -- but he’s someone to keep an eye on. A strong September would make him a sleeper next year.

Melvin also mentioned the names of Fautino De Los Santos and Joey Devine. At this point in time, Balfour is likely the favorite for the job, but De Los Santos might be the best long-term bet. It wouldn’t be a surprise if the team wound up using a host of players for the gig, making it an undesirable situation for fantasy purposes.

Devine was placed on the disabled list prior to last week’s Opening Series due to right biceps tendinitis. He is eligible to return on April 8, but that obviously won’t happen now. We should know more about his status after he visits a doctor in the next day or two.

Devine says that Dr. James Andrews is looking at his MRI, with the best case scenario simply being more tendinitis. The worst case scenario however, is flexor-tendon surgery. What was once a very promising young career has been derailed by repetitive injuries.