Soroka on schedule for two more rehab starts
This browser does not support the video element.
ATLANTA -- Michael Soroka completed his first Minor League rehab start in pain-free fashion. But the Braves are going to remain cautious with the young right-hander, who will likely remain on the disabled list over the next two weeks.
Soroka needed just 45 pitches to complete 3 2/3 perfect innings for Class A Rome on Friday night. This marked the first time the 20-year-old has pitched since he began to be bothered by right shoulder inflammation following his May 12 start in Miami.
To allow Soroka to steadily regain his stamina and arm strength, the Braves plan to give him two more rehab starts. The first will be completed on Wednesday for Triple-A Gwinnett.
If Soroka, the Braves' No. 3 prospect according to MLB Pipeline, remains on a regular schedule and makes what would be his third rehab start on June 11, he would be in line to rejoin Atlanta's rotation as early as June 16, when the Braves are scheduled to play the Padres in Atlanta.
Luiz Gohara made one start in place of Soroka, but the lefty will likely be used as a reliever once he rejoins the Braves' staff. Gohara was scheduled to return to Atlanta on Saturday after spending the past weekend in Brazil with his mother, who recently underwent heart surgery.
Gohara's stint on the bereavement list expired after Wednesday night's game. The 21-year-old southpaw is now on the restricted list, which essentially means he will be on an unpaid leave of absence until he is placed back on Atlanta's roster.