Davidson (forearm tightness) headed to IL

June 16th, 2021

ATLANTA -- Tucker Davidson will be the latest Braves starting pitcher to be placed on the injured list. But there’s some hope he’ll avoid a significant absence after he undergoes an MRI exam on Wednesday.

Braves manager Brian Snitker said Davidson “tested well” after left forearm tightness forced the young pitcher to make an early exit from a 10-8 loss to the Red Sox on Tuesday night at Truist Park. But there was certainly concern when the southpaw departed after his velocity suddenly dropped in the third inning.

“We'll know more tomorrow after they do more tests,” Snitker said. “They did all the manual tests and everything tested OK. So hopefully it's nothing that a little rest won’t alleviate.”

Davidson was removed after being quickly examined by Braves assistant athletic trainer Jeff Stevenson on the mound during the third inning. The left-hander’s fastball velocity dropped from 92-94 mph in the first to 88-90 mph in his final frame.

“I don't think it's gonna be anything too crazy,” Davidson said. “But we're gonna have some more tests done and we'll have a better answer tomorrow.”

Rafael Devers hit a three-run homer and Hunter Renfroe followed with a solo shot during Boston’s four-run first. Davidson had surrendered just one homer while allowing only three runs over the previous three starts (17 2/3 innings) he made this year.

Davidson didn't allow a run in either of the two previous starts he made this month. His success created some hope for a rotation that lost Huascar Ynoa to a broken right hand last week. Ynoa was filling the void created by the absence of Mike Soroka, who has yet to return from last year’s torn right Achilles.

The Braves will promote either a reliever or position player to take Davidson’s roster spot on Wednesday. Bryse Wilson would be on schedule to be promoted to take Davidson’s next turn on Sunday against the Cardinals.