The Atlanta Braves are trying to hold onto their National League East lead, but they also lost a pitcher to a struggling NL team this week.
The San Francisco Giants claimed right-hander Duncan Davitt off waivers from Atlanta on Wednesday. The Giants then optioned him to Triple-A Sacramento.
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Davitt joined the Braves earlier this month after Atlanta acquired him from the Chicago White Sox. He never appeared in a game for Atlanta before San Francisco claimed him.
The 26-year-old spent most of the season in the minors. He posted a 6.29 ERA over 73 innings with 78 strikeouts. He also made two appearances for Chicago at the major league level.
San Francisco is taking a chance on Davitt as it evaluates its pitching depth. The Giants have struggled for most of the season and entered Wednesday well outside the playoff picture.
The move also forced San Francisco to make a roster decision. The Giants designated right-hander Spencer Bivens for assignment to create room for Davitt on the 40-man roster.
For Atlanta, the move is unlikely to affect the major league pitching staff. The Braves are focused on the postseason and have more pressing concerns with their pitching depth.
Atlanta placed Bryce Elder on the injured list Wednesday after he underwent surgery on his right knee. The Braves also activated Reynaldo López from the injured list and selected Bailey Falter’s contract.
The Braves entered Wednesday with an 85-61 record and a three-game lead over the Philadelphia Phillies in the NL East.
That makes Davitt’s departure more of a minor roster change than a major loss. Atlanta has bigger goals with the postseason approaching.
For the Giants, however, the waiver claim gives them another arm to evaluate. Davitt will begin that opportunity in Sacramento as San Francisco looks toward the future.
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