Foltynewicz’s opening-day status remains unclear

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLA. — Mike Foltynewicz, slowed by elbow soreness, is playing catch but isn’t scheduled for any mound work. His status for opening day remains in jeopardy.

The presumed opening-day starter, Foltynewicz has been limited to just one start this spring. He resumed throwing earlier this week, but it’s unclear when he’ll start mound work.

“He looks fine throwing,” manager Brian Snitker said. “He’s going to have to get worked back up. He’s missed enough now that he’s going to have to go through the process.”

Foltynewicz isn’t expected to miss a sizable amount of time — it’s just difficult at this juncture to get him ready for March 28 in Philadelphia. The Braves could use an additional younger pitcher in his short absence.

The 27-year-old Foltynewicz broke out in 2018, pitching to a 2.85 ERA with 9.9 strikeouts per nine innings. He earned his first All-Star appearance and started Game 1 and Game 4 of the National League Division Series.

With Kevin Gausman working his way back from shoulder soreness, Sean Newcomb and Julio Teheran are the logical candidates to take the ball opening day.

Players optioned to minor-league camp: The Braves announced their first wave of cuts as they trim their roster toward the 25-man opening-day edition.

Among the players optioned to minor league camp: pitchers Luiz Gohara, Patrick Weigel, Huascar Ynoa, Kyle Muller and Joey Wentz. Outfielders Drew Waters and Greyson Jenista were sent down, as were catchers William Contreras and Jonathan Morales. It was a memorable spring for Contreras and Waters in particular, with each showing he might not be far from the majors.

The Braves currently have 26 pitchers, four catchers, 11 infielders and seven outfielders in camp. Their roster stands at 48 players.

Mike Foltynewicz had just 1 start this spring and needs mound work.