The Atlanta Braves confirmed their All-Star pitcher Michael Soroka will make his long-anticipated return to baseball in the upcoming game against the Oakland Athletics. This will be Soroka’s first start in MLB since 2020.
Soroka suffered a torn Achilles in a game against the New York Mets in August 2020 and faced a number of obstacles in attempts to return to action in the following years. He dealt with another Achilles tear, setbacks, and a hamstring injury before being cleared to pitch again last week.
“To go through everything he’s been through and now to get back is really a feather in that kid’s cap,” Braves manager Brian Snitker told the reporters on Sunday.
Soroka’s perseverance impressed his teammates as well.
“He’s been through heck, but he’s one guy that can get through it and keep going,” said veteran Charlie Culberson.
Michael Soroka was the Braves’ first-round pick in 2015 and played the better part of his first four years with the organization in the minors. He received his first MLB action during the 2018 campaign.
Soroka was named an MLB All-Star in 2019, making 29 starts and posting a 13-4 record. He finished the campaign with a 2.68 ERA and 142 strikeouts.
