DENVER (AP) — Ian Anderson, the winning pitcher of Game 3 of the 2021 World Series, rejoined the Atlanta Braves on Monday, one day after being claimed off waivers from the Los Angeles Angels.
Atlanta also signed Dominican outfielder Eddie Rosario, optioned outfielder Jarred Kelenic to Triple-A Gwinnett, and designated right-hander Zach Thompson for assignment.
Anderson, a 26-year-old right-hander, went 0-1 with an 11.57 ERA in seven appearances this season for the Angels, who had acquired him in a March trade with Atlanta. It was his first games since 2022 after undergoing Tommy John surgery the following year.
The Braves gave Anderson a spring-training chance to win a spot in their rotation. But they shipped him to the Angels after he issued 20 walks over 20 innings.
“Feels great to be back here. There’s so much familiarity, and it’s about trying to build on the positive results I’ve had this year and just make things work,” Anderson said.
He is expected to work out of the bullpen for Atlanta, which opens a three-game series in Colorado on Monday night.
“Be ready for when I’m called upon,” he stated.
Anderson shined for the Braves during the 2021 postseason, which culminated with Atlanta defeating Houston in six games to claim the World Series title. He threw five hitless innings to win Game 3.
Rosario, an 11-year veteran, returns for his third stint with Atlanta and hit 21 home runs in 142 games for the Braves in 2023. He appeared in two games for the Los Angeles Dodgers this season.
“We’re mainly going to use him as a pinch hitter,” said manager Brian Snitker. “We don’t use pinch hitters much, but I told him he just has to be ready to come in and do whatever we ask.”
Kelenic batted .167 with two home runs in 23 games for the Braves this season.
“We’re going to give Eli (White) a few opportunities. I think it could be good for Jared to come back and play and get some at-bats,” Snitker added.
Thompson did not allow a run in 3 2/3 innings over two appearances this year.
