Atlanta manager Brian Snitker said Sunday that an MRI cleared Fried of any soft-tissue damage before he was placed on the 15-day injured list with left forearm neuritis, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.
Though anything forearm- or elbow-related for a pitcher always brings some level of concern, the fact that Fried avoided a ligament, tendon or muscular injury following his MRI offers hope that he'll steer clear of extended absence. At the same time, Snitker said that Fried is without an official timeline for a return from the IL and won't resume throwing until his symptoms have dissipated. Fried's injury first cropped up when he felt something in his forearm while warming up for the All-Star Game on Tuesday, but the southpaw was still able to make a one-inning appearance in relief for the National League.
Atlanta placed Fried on the 15-day injured list Sunday due to left forearm neuritis.
The 30-year-old was expected to make his first start of the second half in the upcoming series against the Reds early this week, but the forearm issue will instead send him to the IL. Fried will be eligible to be reinstated in early August, though it wouldn't be surprising if his absence extends beyond that, given the nature of the injury. Dylan Dodd was called up from Triple-A Gwinnett in a corresponding move and could have the first crack at filling Fried's rotation spot.
Fried (7-5) took the loss against Arizona on Thursday, allowing one run on five hits and three walks over six innings. He struck out seven.
Fried held the Diamondbacks scoreless over the first four innings before surrendering a leadoff shot to Eugenio Suarez to open the fifth. That would end up being the only run scored all night, leading to the lefty's second straight loss. Fried has logged quality starts in three of his last four outings, though he has just one win to show for it. He's also issued three walks in three of his last five starts.
