Anderson reportedly threw live batting practice recently, per MLB.com. The Braves right-handed hurler is going to go through one more live batting practice session before embarking upon a rehab assignment barring any setbacks.

Anderson has shown signs of promise at the big league level. He’s also endured some struggles, though. At just 26 years old, there is a chance that Anderson could play an impactful role for Atlanta once he returns from injury.

Ian Anderson set to make big impact on Braves?

In 2020, Anderson pitched to a stellar 1.95 ERA across six starts. His performance led the Braves to believe he could become a star down the road.

He pitched well in 2021, recording a 3.58 ERA in 24 starts. He was not quite as dominant but still performed well.

2022 saw Anderson take a step in the wrong direction. He made 22 starts and finished the year with a lackluster 5.00 ERA. He ultimately underwent Tommy John surgery after suffering an elbow injury.

There does not seem to be a strict return timeline for Anderson at the moment. It is apparent that he is nearing a return, though. If he’s able to start his rehab assignment soon, Anderson could join the Braves pitching rotation within the next month or two, depending on how long his rehab assignment lasts.

The Braves will certainly proceed with caution. Returning from Tommy John surgery is never an easy task. Given Anderson’s ceiling and the fact that he has found success in MLB in the past, there is reason for excitement. Ian Anderson could end up making a big impact for the Braves in 2024.

Braves’ pitching rotation

The Braves’ pitching rotation could use some help. Max Fried is a star while Reynaldo Lopez and Chris Sale have pitched well. But Atlanta would benefit from added depth.

Depending on how the Braves approach the situation, Ian Anderson may also be utilized as a bullpen weapon in 2024. He could give them 2-4 innings in relief which would benefit the ball club.

Or the Braves could bring him back as a starting pitcher. Either way, Anderson’s return will help Atlanta amid their plethora of injury concerns.

At the moment, the Braves are focused on breaking out of a slump. They have won just four of their past 10 games overall. Atlanta expects to compete at a high level on a consistent basis, but that has proven to be difficult in recent action.

They will look to turn things around against the Baltimore Orioles on Wednesday night. We will continue to monitor and provide updates on Anderson’s injury status as they are made available.