The Atlanta Braves received an encouraging performance from Bryce Elder on Sunday, but manager Walt Weiss revealed afterward that the right-hander has been dealing with an injury.
Elder delivered six strong innings against the Arizona Diamondbacks, allowing just one run on four hits while striking out five as Atlanta avoided being swept with a 5-3 victory.
Despite the impressive outing, Weiss’ postgame comments revealed that Elder has been fighting through some knee trouble while continuing to take the mound for the Braves.
Speaking with the media after the game, Weiss explained that the issue has not been serious enough to force Elder to miss a scheduled start, but acknowledged that the pitcher has been dealing with it for some time.
Weiss praised Elder for continuing to compete despite the discomfort, calling attention to the right-hander’s durability and willingness to take the ball every five days.
The revelation adds an important layer to what has been a steady season for Elder, who has remained a dependable piece of Atlanta’s rotation.
Elder’s ability to continue pitching is particularly important for the Braves as they push deeper into the season.
Through 24 starts, he has posted a 3.92 ERA and provided Atlanta with valuable innings, making his availability an important part of the club’s rotation stability.
His latest performance against Arizona was especially encouraging because he managed to limit the Diamondbacks to one run despite apparently battling the knee issue.
For now, there is no indication that Elder is expected to miss his next start, but Weiss’ comments will likely have Braves fans watching the situation closely.
The team will have to balance Elder’s importance to the rotation with the need to make sure the knee issue does not become something more serious.
With Atlanta competing at the top of the National League East, keeping its starting pitchers healthy could become increasingly important, and Elder’s decision to continue pitching through the discomfort shows just how valuable he has been to the club this season.
