Reynaldo Lopez is eligible to return from the injured list on September 26, which coincides with the final game of the critical three-game Mets-Braves series in Atlanta, just before the regular season concludes.
As of Wednesday, both the Mets and Braves are tied for the last NL wild-card spot with records of 79-66. They trail the Diamondbacks by two games and the Padres, who hold the top wild-card position, by 2.5 games.
In response to Lopez’s absence, the Braves have called up pitcher Daysbel Hernández, who is expected to take over Lopez’s spot in the rotation.
This setback adds to a series of injury challenges for the Braves. They are already missing 2023 MLB strikeout leader and ace Spencer Strider, who is recovering from Tommy John surgery. Additionally, reigning 2023 NL MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. suffered an ACL tear in May, and third baseman Austin Riley is out with a fractured right hand, which will sideline him for six to eight weeks.
Riley might be able to return if the Braves advance to the playoffs. Star second baseman Ozzie Albies is also recovering from a fractured left wrist and has been sidelined for several weeks.
The Braves will wrap up their two-game series with the Nationals on Wednesday before facing a tough four-game home series against the NL West-leading Dodgers. After the critical Mets series, the Braves will conclude the season with three home games against the Royals, while the Mets will visit the Brewers.
