Braves' Chris Sale Begins Rehab Start at Triple-A Gwinnett

Atlanta Braves pitcher Chris Sale is set to begin a rehab assignment with the Triple-A Gwinnett Stripers on Tuesday, marking his first start since fracturing two ribs in mid-June while making a defensive play. Sale has been recovering since the injury sidelined him on June 18, and he recently threw 30 pitches in a simulated game as he prepares to return. Despite the Braves' challenging season and multiple rotation injuries, Sale expressed his competitive desire to continue pitching rather than sit out the remainder of the year. Manager Brian Snitker confirmed Sale's rehab start and noted the possibility of Sale rejoining the Braves' rotation the following week, depending on his recovery progress. Sale had been pitching effectively before his injury, posting a 2.52 ERA with 114 strikeouts over 15 starts. The Braves have also been managing other rotation challenges and are integrating prospects like Hurston Waldrep to maintain pitching depth.