Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez continues to insist that Jordan Walden, who missed a month of the Grapefruit season due to a bulging disk in his back, will be in the bullpen on opening day against Philadelphia.
Should that actually come to pass, one but not both of Anthony Varvaro and Cristhian Martinez can make the team. Both would make it with Walden on the shelf. Atlanta could look into trading one of the relievers if Walden is definitely healthy, reports MLB.com, as both relievers are out of options and would have to pass through waivers to remain with the organization if sent down.
Martinez could have the advantage in remaining with the Braves as he has proven his ability to work in multiple different roles over the last two years. Varvaro, however, has had an excellent spring up until Monday's outing.