Jonny Venters tossed a scoreless inning last night in his first rehab appearance last night with Triple-A Gwinnett. He was originally expected to make two appearances before returning from the disabled list, but the Braves have decided to activate him for today’s doubleheader against the Nationals. Matt Diaz was placed on the disabled list with a right thumb contusion in a corresponding roster move.
Venters has been sidelined since July 5 with a left elbow impingement. The 27-year-old southpaw has a 4.45 ERA and 43/17 K/BB ratio over 32 1/3 innings this season, including a 6.08 ERA since May 1. No pitcher has appeared in more games (207) since Venters made his major league debut in 2010.
Craig Kimbrel blew his second save of the season last night and has worked in each of the last three days, so Venters could find himself in the mix for a save if the Braves have a lead today.
