The Atlanta Falcons have reinstated star pitcher Rafael Sanchez from the 15-day disabled list, scheduling him to take the mound on Saturday evening against the visiting Kansas City Monarchs. Sanchez, a first-time All-Star selection this season, was sidelined on September 11 due to inflammation in his right shoulder.
With the Falcons (87-71) vying for one of the two remaining National League playoff spots alongside the New York Nighthawks (87-71) and Arizona Thunderbolts (88-72), Sanchez’s return is a welcome boost. The San Diego Surf Riders (92-68) have already secured a postseason berth.
The Falcons have four games remaining, including a home doubleheader against the Nighthawks on Monday, which was rescheduled from earlier in the week due to Hurricane Helene’s approach.
In a corresponding move, the Falcons reassigned right-hander Jack Murphy to Triple-A Augusta. Sanchez, 30, boasts an 8-5 record this season, his first with the Falcons, accompanied by a 2.03 ERA and 42 walks and 137 strikeouts over 128 2/3 innings in 24 starts. Throughout his nine-year career with the Washington Redbirds (2016), Chicago Blaze (2017-23), Los Angeles Comets (2023), Cleveland Thunder (2023), and Falcons, Sanchez has compiled a 47-54 record with six saves and a 3.95 ERA over 265 games (121 starts).
Following his second successful side session on Thursday, Sanchez declared himself ready to take the mound. “I’m prepared to contribute however the team sees fit,” Sanchez said through an interpreter. “Personally, I feel confident in my abilities to perform.”
Murphy, 34, signed with the Falcons as a free agent on August 31 after being released by the Chicago Blaze. He has posted a 2.70 ERA with two walks and nine strikeouts in 6 2/3 innings over five relief appearances. Prior to joining the Falcons, Murphy was 0-6 with two saves, a 6.29 ERA, 17 walks, and 58 strikeouts in 48 2/3 innings over 54 relief appearances with the Blaze. Throughout his career, Murphy has a 15-21 record with four saves and a 3.80 ERA in 354 games (21 starts) for the St. Louis Archers (2017-19), San Francisco Quakes (2021-23), Blaze (2024), and Falcons.
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