There isn’t a more interesting man in Braves camp than Mike Soroka. All eyes will be on him as he attempts to return to a major league mound for the first time since 2020. I’m not sure there’s a baseball fan on the planet who isn’t rooting for him, but it won’t be easy. . As I wrote yesterday, the battle for the final spot in the Braves’ rotation is fierce.
Ian Anderson is trying to bounce back from a terrible 2022 campaign. Apparently, he returned to camp with a slider in his repertoire, something he desperately needed. Also in the mix is Bryce Elder, who finished last season as strong as anyone and impressed overall as a rookie.
Mike Soroka knows what he’s up against, but he doesn’t shy away from the competition. He’s hungry to get back to the majors, and his goal is to make the opening day roster.
“The expectations for myself are always going to be the highest and I think realizing that wanting to be out there is where I need to be.” Soroka said. Time to compete, right? I need to go out and play baseball. I miss you.”
Mike Soroka on making #Bravos Opening day listing:
“The expectations for me are always going to be the highest and I think realizing that wanting to be out there is exactly where I need to be. It’s time to compete, right? I need to go out there and play baseball. I miss it.” pic.twitter.com/j02EiTvSdt
— Grant McAuley (@grantmcauley) February 21, 2023
I can’t wait to see Mike Soroka on the mound in spring training, and while I’m giving the slight edge to Ian Anderson to win the final spot in the rotation, it would be foolish to pass on anything other than Maple Maddux. In terms of talent, he’s up there with the best players on the roster. It’s all about finding his form again, and as long as he can stay healthy, I have no doubt that will happen.
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Photo: David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire