The Atlanta Braves have announced the acquisition of left-handed pitcher Joey Wentz, who was claimed off waivers from the Minnesota Twins. In a corresponding move, right-hander Kevin Herget was designated for assignment.
This move marks a return to the Braves for Wentz, who was originally drafted by the team in 2016 with the 40th overall pick. He was considered one of Atlanta’s top prospects before being traded to the Detroit Tigers in 2019 as part of a deal that brought Shane Greene to the Braves. Wentz made his Major League debut with the Tigers in 2022, showcasing a promising start with a 3.03 ERA in seven starts. However, he faced challenges in subsequent seasons, struggling with a 6.90 ERA over 105 2/3 innings pitched in 2023 which resulted in a transition to the bullpen.
With his time in Minnesota proving difficult, Wentz pitched only eight innings, allowing 14 runs on 17 hits, which led to his designation for assignment. Now at 27 years old and out of minor league options, he will be added directly to the Braves’ big league roster. Given the current injury challenges faced by the Braves’ rotation, Wentz may play a crucial role as a long reliever or opener.
Kevin Herget, on the other hand, has had a more limited role in the majors. At 34, he has spent the majority of the season in Triple-A with mixed results, recording a 3.26 ERA across 30 1/3 innings. With a history of part-time appearances in the majors and now in the final year of his minor league options, his future with the Braves remains uncertain as the team looks to potentially trade him or place him on waivers in the coming days.
This acquisition of Wentz could prove beneficial to the Braves as they navigate a challenging season filled with injuries, and his familiarity with the organization may allow him to perform effectively in his new role.