Jesse Chavez Injury Update: What Happened to Jesse Chavez?
by A N Rahul
Updated Jun 15, 2023
Jesse Chavez Injury Update
Jesse Chavez, relief pitcher for the Atlanta Braves, has been having an impressive 2023 season with notable stats, including a 1.55 ERA, 36 strikeouts, and 13 holds in 31 games. Unfortunately, he suffered a concerning injury on June 14 during the first game of a doubleheader against the Detroit Tigers.
In the sixth inning, Chavez was struck by a comebacker from Miguel Cabrera, with the ball traveling at a speed of 99.6 miles per hour. The impact caused Chavez to fall to the ground in pain and he had to be carried off the field by trainers. Kirby Yates replaced him for the remainder of the game. Despite the Braves winning the game 9-7, the team was understandably worried about Chavez's condition.
Fortunately, the x-rays taken on Chavez's leg came back negative, revealing no fractures or breaks. However, he did sustain an injury to his left shin bone, and additional tests are being conducted to assess the full extent of the damage and determine his recovery time. The Braves have yet to announce whether Chavez will be placed on the injured list or the duration of his absence.
Chavez's injury is a setback for the Braves' bullpen, which has already been dealing with other injuries and losses this season. Dylan Lee, Tyler Matzek, and Huascar Ynoa are all out for the season due to various injuries, leaving the team with fewer options for late-inning relief. Chavez has been a reliable and effective reliever for the Braves, making his absence felt by the team and fans alike.
Our hopes are with Chavez for a speedy recovery and a swift return to the mound. He is a valuable asset for the Braves and a respected veteran in the league. We extend our best wishes to him during his recovery process.
What happened to Jesse Chavez?
Jesse Chavez, a relief pitcher for the Atlanta Braves, suffered an injury during a game on June 14. In the sixth inning of the first game of a doubleheader against the Detroit Tigers, Chavez was hit by a comebacker from Miguel Cabrera. The ball struck him below the left knee, causing him to fall to the ground in pain. Trainers had to assist him off the field, and Kirby Yates took his place in the game.
Fortunately, Chavez's x-rays came back negative, indicating that he did not sustain any fractures or breaks in his leg. However, he did suffer an injury to his left shin bone. To determine the extent of the damage and estimate his recovery time, further tests are being conducted. At present, the Braves have not provided information regarding whether Chavez will be placed on the injured list or the expected duration of his absence.
Currently, Chavez is in the process of recovery and awaiting the results of his additional tests. He has not made any public statements regarding his condition or the timeline for his return. It is likely that he is undergoing rest and rehabilitation to aid in the healing process, with the goal of returning to the pitching mound as soon as possible. During this time, he is likely receiving support and encouragement from his teammates, coaches, family, friends, and fans.
Who is Jesse Chavez?
Jesse David Chavez, born on August 21, 1983, is an accomplished American professional baseball pitcher who currently plays for the Atlanta Braves in Major League Baseball (MLB). Chavez began his baseball journey by playing at Riverside Community College and later got selected by the Texas Rangers in the 42nd round of the 2002 Major League Baseball Draft. Throughout his career, he has also represented several other MLB teams, including the Pittsburgh Pirates, Kansas City Royals, Toronto Blue Jays, Oakland Athletics, Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Angels, and Chicago Cubs.
Before joining the Braves in 2023, Jesse Chavez had already enjoyed three previous stints with the team. Notably, he was part of the Braves' roster during their successful World Series campaign in 2021, adding a notable achievement to his career. Chavez's versatility and skill have allowed him to contribute to multiple teams over the years, showcasing his ability to adapt and perform at a high level.
As a professional pitcher, Jesse Chavez has demonstrated his talent and dedication to the sport. His extensive experience in the MLB has shaped him into a seasoned player, capable of delivering strong performances on the mound. With his addition to the Atlanta Braves, Chavez continues to make his mark in the world of baseball.
Jesse Chavez Career
Professional Career
Jesse Chavez's professional baseball career has seen him play for multiple teams in Major League Baseball (MLB) over the years. Here is a detailed account of his journey, highlighting the various trades and teams he has been associated with.
Pittsburgh Pirates
Jesse Chavez's professional career took off when he was traded from the Texas Rangers to the Pittsburgh Pirates on July 31, 2006. Following the trade, he joined the Pirates' Triple-A team, the Indianapolis Indians, for the remainder of the season and throughout the entirety of 2007. During his time with the Indians in 2007, Chavez showcased his skills in 51 games and achieved an impressive 3.80 earned run average (ERA).
Atlanta Braves (First Stint)
On November 3, 2009, Jesse Chavez's tenure with the Pittsburgh Pirates came to an end as he was traded to the Tampa Bay Rays. In return, the Pirates acquired second baseman Akinori Iwamura. However, Chavez's time with the Rays was short-lived, as he was traded once again on December 10 of that year. This time, he was sent to the Atlanta Braves in exchange for Rafael Soriano.
Chavez joined the Braves for the 2010 season, where he took the mound as a pitcher. However, his performance during that season was challenging, as he recorded a 5.89 ERA in 36 2/3 innings pitched. Despite his efforts, Chavez struggled to find consistency and was unable to achieve the desired level of success on the mound for the Braves during that particular season.
Kansas City Royals
Chavez's next stop was the Kansas City Royals, where he was traded on July 31, 2010. Along with Gregor Blanco and Tim Collins, he was sent to the Royals in exchange for Rick Ankiel and Kyle Farnsworth. Chavez played for the Royals until October 11, 2011, when he was designated for assignment. During his time with the Royals, Chavez pitched 33 2/3 innings and had a 6.95 ERA.
Toronto Blue Jays
After his time with the Kansas City Royals, Jesse Chavez joined the Toronto Blue Jays on October 21, 2011, as he was claimed off waivers. Initially assigned to the Blue Jays' Triple-A affiliate, the Las Vegas 51s, Chavez worked his way up and eventually made his major league debut on May 27, 2012. Throughout his tenure with the Blue Jays, Chavez appeared in 26 games, showcasing a 4.57 earned run average (ERA) and tallying an impressive 42 strikeouts over a span of 41 1/3 innings.
Oakland Athletics
In August 2012, Jesse Chavez was traded from the Toronto Blue Jays to the Oakland Athletics in exchange for cash considerations. The following year, in 2013, Chavez split his time between the Triple-A Sacramento River Cats and the major league team. However, he had a memorable performance on June 13, 2013, when he delivered an impressive outing, pitching 5 2/3 shutout innings of relief during an intense 18-inning game against the New York Yankees. Overall, he appeared in 57 games for the Athletics that season and ended with a solid 3.92 ERA.
Moving into the 2014 season, Chavez's role with the Athletics expanded as he was added to the team's starting rotation. This opportunity came about due to injuries within the pitching staff. It turned out to be a significant season for Chavez, as he set personal records for starts and innings pitched. By the end of the year, he held an 8-8 record with a commendable 3.45 ERA, showcasing his capabilities as a starting pitcher.
Texas Rangers (First Stint)
After a brief stint with the Chicago Cubs, Jesse Chavez rejoined the Texas Rangers on November 30, 2018, signing a two-year contract. He made a notable impact in the 2019 season, showcasing his pitching skills by completing 78 innings with a 4.85 ERA. However, his performance took a downturn in the subsequent season, as he struggled with a higher ERA of 6.88 in just 17 innings pitched.
Chicago Cubs (First Stint)
In a trade that took place on July 19, 2018, Jesse Chavez joined the Chicago Cubs in exchange for minor league pitcher Tyler Thomas. During his time with the Cubs, Chavez showcased exceptional performance, boasting an impressive 1.15 earned run average (ERA) across 32 appearances.
Texas Rangers (Second Stint)
Chavez returned to the Texas Rangers on November 30, 2018, signing a two-year contract. He had a solid 2019 season, pitching 78 innings and posting a 4.85 ERA. However, his performance in the following season declined, with a 6.88 ERA in 17 innings pitched.
Los Angeles Angels (Second Stint)
In February 2021, Jesse Chavez inked a minor league agreement with the Los Angeles Angels. He was released by the team on March 26, 2021, before the regular season began.
Atlanta Braves (Second Stint)
On April 17, 2021, Jesse Chavez agreed to terms with the Atlanta Braves on a minor league contract. He was called up to the active roster on June 24 and had an impressive season, recording a 2.14 ERA in 30 games, including four starts. Chavez also made seven postseason appearances for the Braves without surrendering any runs.
Chicago Cubs (Second Stint)
Chavez signed a minor league split contract with the Chicago Cubs on March 13, 2022. He was selected to the Cubs' active roster on April 2.
Atlanta Braves (Third Stint)
On April 20, 2022, Chavez was traded back to the Atlanta Braves, along with cash considerations, in exchange for Sean Newcomb.
Los Angeles Angels (Third Stint)
Chavez was traded to the Los Angeles Angels, along with Tucker Davidson, on August 2, 2022, in a deal that sent Raisel Iglesias to the Braves. However, Chavez was released by the Angels on August 29 after struggling in 11 games.
Atlanta Braves (Fourth Stint)
Just a day after being released by the Angels, Chavez was claimed off waivers by the Atlanta Braves on August 30, 2022. He signed a 1-year minor league contract with the Braves on November 12, 2022, and was invited to major league spring training for the 2023 season.
Jesse Chavez Injury Update- FAQs
Jesse Chavez's injury occurred when he was struck by a comebacker from Miguel Cabrera during a game against the Detroit Tigers. The ball hit him below the left knee, causing him to fall to the ground in pain.
X-rays taken on Chavez's leg came back negative, indicating no fractures or breaks. However, he did sustain an injury to his left shin bone.
Additional tests are being conducted to assess the full extent of the damage caused by Chavez's injury and determine his recovery time.
The Atlanta Braves have not announced whether Chavez will be placed on the injured list as a result of his injury. It is currently unknown if he will be sidelined for an extended period.
Chavez's injury is a setback for the Braves' bullpen, which has already been dealing with other injuries and losses this season. His absence reduces the team's options for late-inning relief and places added pressure on the remaining pitchers.