Injury Update: Braves expect reliever’s return on Friday

The Braves hope to have reliever Pierce Johnson back on Friday.

A vital member of the Atlanta Braves’ bullpen appears to be on the verge of returning. Brian Snitker told MLB.com’s Mark Bowman on Sunday that reliever Pierce Johnson should be activated from the 15-day injured list on Friday. Johnson was placed on the injured list retroactively from May 1 owing to elbow irritation.

Snit said Pierce Johnson will likely be activated Friday

— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) May 12, 2024

The Braves will return home on Monday to play the Chicago Cubs in a three-game series. They have another day off Thursday before starting their homestand with a four-game series against the San Diego Padres.

Having Johnson back would be a tremendous boost for their bullpen. Johnson has been a significant player since being acquired in a trade with the Colorado Rockies last season. In the offseason, he re-signed for a two-year contract. So far this season, he has participated in 13 games and has a 3.00 ERA, 2.83 FIP, and 32% strikeout rate in 12 innings.