2022 Atlanta Braves Season in Review: Mike Soroka

Mike Soroka has returned to pitching in games at the minor league level after his second Achilles tendon repair.

Mike Soroka was drafted by the Braves with the 28th overall pick of the 2015 MLB amateur draft. He signed a one-year, $2.8 million contract for the season avoiding arbitration.

Mike Soroka was injured for most of the season. The Braves had high expectations for him. He was able to adjust to new mechanics and stay healthy.

Mike Soroka did not play in any major league games this season. He played for the Rome Braves in August. Sorokai was moved to Gwinnett for his second start. His third start was a one-hit shutout, but he struggled to close the season with nine runs over nine innings.

Soroka has been injured since his initial Achilles tear in August of 2020. He was hit by a line drive in early July and injured his knee. His rehab was supposed to start soon after that, but he didn't have enough time. This season he focused on getting a feel for his pitches and improving his mechanics. He has worked on his footwork and his delivery. It's a more fluid delivery overall. The elbow soreness at the end of the season also causes concern. There is a risk that building up his stamina will have its issues and lead to arm issues.

Soroka is coming into his 25th season with a 2.86 career ERA and 4.9 fWAR. He will probably spend some time in Triple-A to start the season. The Braves have continued to tender him contracts throughout this process, including another $2.8 million salary for 2023.