In a strategic move to bolster their pitching roster, the Atlanta Braves announced on Friday that they have claimed right-handed pitcher Amos Willingham off waivers from the Washington Nationals. The decision follows the Braves designating fellow right-handed pitcher Allan Winans for assignment. Willingham, pitched for the Chattooga Indians before making his mark at the collegiate level with the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets.

During the 2019 season, he made 18 appearances for Georgia Tech, achieving a 5.19 ERA, with 13 of those being starts. His promising performance earned him a selection in the 17th round of the MLB Draft by the Nationals later that same year. The 26-year-old pitcher has seen brief action in the Major Leagues over the past two seasons, primarily with Triple-A Rochester. In 19 Major League appearances, Willingham holds a 7.11 ERA, a 1.81 WHIP, and a 61 ERA+ across 25 1/3 innings pitched. His time in Triple-A has showcased a more favorable performance, with a 3.69 ERA and 71 strikeouts in 68 1/3 innings over 55 appearances.

Willingham’s arrival is expected to provide much-needed depth to the Braves’ bullpen as the organization prepares for the upcoming season. The Braves have yet to make any major league-level transactions this offseason, but their minor league moves have been gaining traction. Just last week, the franchise signed former Marlins All-Star Garrett Cooper to a minor league deal. Concerns have been voiced regarding the team’s focus on smaller transactions, especially following a reported failed physical that halted a potential deal with now-Toronto Blue Jays reliever Jeff Hoffman. Nevertheless, the Braves remain proactive in their efforts, with expectations of a significant acquisition on the horizon before spring training.

As the Braves continue to build their roster, fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close eye on how the latest acquisitions, including Willingham, will impact the team’s performance in the coming season.