Source: It’s Clear Where Ian Anderson Will Go Next.

Pitcher Ian Anderson of the Atlanta Braves is prepared to advance in his injury rehabilitation and rejoin the major league team.
Ian Anderson, the starting pitcher for the Atlanta Braves, had Tommy John surgery in April 2023. He has been working hard to go back to the major league team this season.

Last Thursday, Anderson started his first rehab game in the FCL league. On Tuesday, he was supposed to make another FCL start, but things have worked out better now.

A source claims that JR Ritchie, a former first-round selection, and Anderson have switched starting positions. Ritchie will start on Tuesday, while Anderson will play on Monday.

The rationale behind the decision is that Anderson is anticipated to report to the top Single-A Rome Emperors on Tuesday in order to begin a series of rehab starts prior to his next assignment.

UPDATE 2:00 PM: A source claims that after a poor performance on Monday afternoon, Anderson will now be sent to Augusta rather than Rome.

The 22-year-old Ritchie and Anderson have been throwing partners in their recuperation from the same surgery, but Ritchie’s post-op strategy is yet unknown. Jonathan Mayo of MLB.com ranks Ritchie as the Braves’ No. 4 prospect in the system.

The Braves have been playing well lately, but they battled for a large portion of May and into June. They also seem to be strengthened by players who are coming back from injuries.

Reliever A.J. Minter has made progress toward his comeback, while Max Fried has been outstanding since coming off the IL.

Anderson’s potential acquisition in the second half of the season would give the team another arm to use. One with whom the Braves are comfortable sharing the mound in September and October while facing high-leverage situations.

After eight playoff appearances, Anderson’s career earned run average (ERA) is 1.26. If the Braves can get that Anderson in the second half and beyond, he would be a welcome addition to the rotation.