The Atlanta Braves officially placed right-handed pitcher Reynaldo Lopez on the injured list Tuesday, the team announced. The move comes following a difficult recent outing from Lopez. Meanwhile, right-handed pitcher JR Ritchie, who began the season as one of Atlanta's top prospects, has been recalled to the big league ball club.

“The #Braves today recalled RHP JR Ritchie to Atlanta and placed RHP Reynaldo López on the 15-day injured list with right shoulder inflammation. Additionally, RHPJoe Jiménez tonight begins a rehabilitation assignment with the Gwinnett Stripers,” the team announced.

Lopez, 32, has appeared in 26 games this season, 13 of which have been starts. While his 4.54 ERA is far from ideal, Lopez is a versatile pitcher who gave the Braves flexibility within the pitching staff. Now, he will miss time due to shoulder inflammation.

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Ritchie, 23, may no longer technically be a prospect but he's still looked at as a future star by the Braves. Through 14 big league pitched (eight starts) in 2026, he's recorded a 4.50 ERA. He's been inconsistent at the MLB level, but Ritchie could make a significant impact down the stretch for the Braves.

Atlanta currently holds a 4.5 game lead over the Philadelphia Phillies in the National League East standings. The Braves in a quality position to win the division barring a collapse of the final couple of weeks of the season. They do have a difficult matchup on Tuesday night, as the Braves will play the Cubs in Chicago. First pitch is scheduled for 7:40 PM ET.