With a grueling doubleheader on the horizon, the Atlanta Braves have turned to a familiar face for reinforcement, calling up former top left-handed pitching prospect Dylan Dodd. The move is a strategic one, aimed at bolstering the pitching staff’s depth and stability as the club navigates a compact schedule.
Dodd, 25, made his major league debut in 2023 and showed flashes of promise during limited opportunities with the Braves. A third-round pick out of Southeast Missouri State in the 2021 MLB Draft, Dodd quickly rose through the Braves’ system thanks to his command, poise, and a solid three-pitch mix. While he doesn’t overpower hitters with velocity, his ability to locate and mix speeds has long intrigued Atlanta’s front office and coaching staff.
After beginning the 2024 season in Triple-A Gwinnett, Dodd has compiled a modest stat line, though recent starts have demonstrated improved control and consistency. The Braves view him as a reliable spot starter or long-relief option — an ideal fit for the taxing demands of a doubleheader. His inclusion gives the Braves flexibility to manage innings and reduce the workload on the core rotation, especially with a few pitchers nursing minor injuries or dealing with fatigue.
Manager Brian Snitker emphasized the importance of roster depth during the pregame media session. “Dylan’s been throwing the ball well down in Gwinnett,” Snitker said. “He’s a guy who knows our system, and he’s shown he can compete at this level. In a situation like a doubleheader, having someone like him is a huge asset.”
Dodd’s return to the big-league mound offers him another chance to prove he can contribute meaningfully in a pennant race. The Braves have maintained one of the strongest rotations in the National League, but the grind of a long season inevitably tests every club’s depth. If Dodd can deliver a quality outing — or even just eat innings effectively — he could find himself in the mix for additional opportunities later in the season.
For now, the left-hander’s assignment is clear: provide solid innings and help the Braves get through a demanding day of baseball. It’s a crucial role that often flies under the radar, but one that can make a big difference in the long run.
