The Atlanta Braves received a significant blow to their pitching rotation as veteran left-hander Chris Sale was placed on the 15-day injured list with a fractured left rib cage. The injury, announced on Saturday, June 21, 2025, was sustained during a diving play in the ninth inning of Wednesday's game against the New York Mets. Despite the injury, Sale managed to finish his outing, pitching 8 2/3 scoreless innings before exiting the game.
Sale’s heroic effort came as he made a remarkable diving stop on a ground ball hit by Juan Soto, throwing out the Mets star from his knees to record the first out of the ninth inning. However, the play took a toll on him, resulting in the fractured rib. Undeterred, Sale struck out Pete Alonso on four pitches before allowing a bloop single to Brandon Nimmo, after which he left the game.
During this outing, Sale threw 116 pitches, 85 of which were strikes, allowing only five hits and one walk while recording seven strikeouts. This performance was reflective of his strong season to date. The reigning National League Cy Young Award winner has posted an impressive 2.52 ERA, ranking third among NL starters, and holds a 5-4 record over 15 starts, amassing 114 strikeouts in 89 1/3 innings.
The Braves secured a 5-0 victory over the Mets in that game, marking their sixth win in eight contests and seventh in ten, signaling a promising stretch for Atlanta amid a challenging season. Meanwhile, the Mets endured their fifth consecutive loss, part of a seven-game skid that has seen them fall out of first place in the NL East with a 45-31 record.
Sale’s injury is a setback for a Braves team that has been showing signs of resurgence. The 15-day injured list stint is retroactive to Thursday, June 19, making him eligible to return on July 3. However, experts caution that rib injuries can require longer recovery times, especially given Sale’s history and pitching style. Notably, he suffered a stress fracture in his right rib cage before the 2022 season, sidelining him for over three months. This new injury appears to affect his left rib cage, based on the mechanics of his fall during the diving play.
The Braves’ starting rotation had been bolstered by Sale alongside Spencer Schwellenbach and Spencer Strider, who recently returned from elbow surgery. The rest of the rotation includes Grant Holmes (3-6, 3.97 ERA), Bryce Elder (2-3, 4.45), and Didier Fuentes (0-1, 7.20). The team also lost AJ Smith-Shawver to Tommy John surgery earlier in June, further straining the pitching staff.
To fill Sale’s roster spot, the Braves recalled left-handed reliever Austin Cox from Triple-A Gwinnett. Cox, who made his big league debut in 2023 with the Kansas City Royals, has been pitching in the minors since 2018. Signed by Atlanta in May after being released by the Royals, Cox has a 4.85 ERA in 11 appearances for the Gwinnett Stripers this season. His arrival adds bullpen depth but also underscores the challenge the Braves face in maintaining pitching consistency.
Braves general manager Alex Anthopoulos was unequivocal about Sale’s future with the team amid trade rumors. Speaking on Atlanta’s 680 The Fan, Anthopoulos stated, “Will. Not. Happen. Bold, italicize it, caps,” emphasizing that Sale is not going anywhere. Anthopoulos also pointed to the $18 million club option the Braves hold for Sale’s 2026 season as a key factor in keeping the ace in Atlanta.
David O’Brien of The Athletic highlighted the uncertain timeline for Sale’s return, noting that the Braves will wait for symptoms to diminish before estimating a comeback. O’Brien suggested the recovery might be extended due to the injury’s nature, Sale’s age, slender frame, and the significant torque generated by his 6-foot-6 sidearming delivery.
Sale’s injury comes at a crucial juncture for the Braves, who have been clawing their way back into the National League wild card race. His strong pitching has been a pillar of their recent success, and his absence will test the depth and resilience of the rotation. Spencer Strider and Spencer Schwellenbach remain key starters, but Sale’s loss leaves a noticeable void.
As the Braves navigate this challenge, their ability to adapt and maintain momentum will be critical. The team’s recent winning streaks reflect a squad capable of overcoming adversity, but the road ahead will demand contributions from the entire pitching staff and bullpen.
For now, Atlanta fans will be watching closely as Sale begins his recovery, hoping the veteran left-hander can return to form and help lead the team through the pivotal stretch of the season. Meanwhile, Austin Cox’s promotion offers some hope for bullpen reinforcement, even as the Braves prepare for life without one of their top pitchers.
Sale’s fractured rib cage is a stark reminder of the physical toll of baseball’s demanding schedule and the risks players take in pursuit of victory. His diving play was a testament to his competitive spirit and commitment, qualities that have defined his career and earned him the Cy Young Award.
The Braves’ front office and coaching staff now face the task of managing the rotation carefully, balancing immediate needs with long-term health considerations for Sale. The team’s recent form suggests they have the talent and determination to remain competitive, but the loss of a key ace always complicates the path forward.
As the season progresses, the Braves will aim to build on their recent successes, maintain pressure in the NL East and wild card races, and navigate the challenges posed by injuries. Chris Sale’s situation will be a focal point, with fans and analysts alike eager to see how quickly and effectively he can return to the mound.
In the meantime, Atlanta’s pitching depth will be tested, and the team will look to players like Austin Cox and Didier Fuentes to step up. The resilience shown by the Braves so far this season will be crucial as they strive to keep their postseason hopes alive without their ace on the mound.
