Braves' Chris Sale Out With Fractured Rib

Atlanta Braves ace and reigning NL Cy Young winner Chris Sale has been placed on the 15-day injured list after fracturing his left ribcage while making a diving play against the Mets. Sale, who has posted a 2.52 ERA and excelled since May, faces an uncertain recovery timeline, raising concerns about his ability to return this season. This injury is a major setback for the Braves, who are already trailing the Phillies in the NL East and will miss Sale in an important upcoming series. Despite Sale’s injury and recent history of similar setbacks, Braves leadership maintains a commitment to competing and has dismissed any trade rumors involving him. Sale, acquired from the Red Sox in late 2023, has been a bright spot in an otherwise difficult season for Atlanta. His absence could further challenge the team’s postseason hopes as they look to close the division gap.