Week 7 of the MLB fantasy season is ripe with two-start pitchers, providing ample opportunity for savvy fantasy managers to optimize their lineups. Among the pitchers rostered under 50%, Matthew Liberatore stands out with a stellar 3.07 ERA and a robust strikeout rate, making his upcoming matchups against Philadelphia and Kansas City enticing. Colin Rea, though less recognized, presents a reasonable option with a 2.43 ERA, particularly facing the struggling Chicago White Sox.

On the riskier side, pitchers like Tanner Houck and Michael Wacha carry potential pitfalls, with Houck's recent meltdown raising concerns, while Wacha faces a challenging week against both Detroit and St. Louis. Newcomers Jackson Jobe and Merrill Kelly also hold promise, but their shaky statistics may lead to a toss-up. With careful selection, fantasy owners can navigate this week’s slate to their advantage.

The Atlanta Braves have made a swift roster change, recalling top prospect AJ Smith-Shawver to start against the Colorado Rockies while designating right-hander Ian Anderson for assignment. This move highlights Atlanta's ongoing adjustments amid pitching struggles, as fans express concerns over the front office's decision-making. Anderson, once a postseason standout in 2021, has struggled since returning from elbow surgery. Meanwhile, Smith-Shawver, who has shown promise yet faced control issues, aims to establish himself in the rotation, at least temporarily.

The Atlanta Braves are in a chaotic state regarding their pitching staff, recently recalling RHP Davis Daniel and designating long-time fan favorite Jesse Chavez for assignment. This move adds to the cycle of re-signing familiar pitchers, leaving many fans to question the team's approach. The Braves have also claimed former pitcher Ian Anderson off waivers from the Angels in what appears to be a desperate attempt to stabilize their pitching. Such decisions raise the question: is there a better strategy than recycling the same players?

Chavez's history with the team suggests he may soon return, illustrating a lack of commitment to fresh talent. As Ronald Acuña Jr. is set to return, fans are urging the Braves to consider who else might be affected by these repeated roster changes, particularly regarding Eli White's role going forward. The Braves' current strategy of bringing back familiar names is under scrutiny as they search for viable pitching solutions.

As Spring Training approaches its halfway point, the Atlanta Braves are gearing up for the upcoming season, with Opening Day just weeks away. Predicting the team's 26-man roster, The Athletic's David O'Brien identifies Chris Sale, Reynaldo López, and Spencer Schwellenbach as the top three starters, with Grant Holmes and Ian Anderson expected to fill out the rotation. Despite Anderson's struggles with walks during the spring, his impressive ERA and batting average against suggest he remains a strong candidate for the starting five.

O'Brien emphasizes that both Holmes and Anderson lack minor-league options, making it likely the Braves will retain them unless significant injuries or poor performances occur. Such depth is valued by the Braves, so losing a starter to waivers seems improbable unless a drastic decline happens. Notably, while Anderson's control issues are concerning, his ability to restrict opposing hitters demonstrates potential that could pay off during the regular season.

Ian Anderson, the Atlanta Braves' starting pitcher, made a long-awaited return to the mound after an extensive recovery process. In his first outing since March 2023, Anderson faced off against the Tampa Bay Rays but struggled, managing only 1 2/3 innings with an earned run, one hit, and three walks. His fastball velocity peaked around 93 mph, consistent with his previous practice sessions, but his command was subpar, throwing just 17 strikes out of 37 pitches.

This outing marks a critical step in Anderson's comeback journey after undergoing Tommy John surgery in early 2023. Before his injury, he had showcased promise with a 3.25 ERA in his first 30 MLB starts, including strong postseason performances. As he strives to reclaim his spot in the Braves' rotation, fantasy enthusiasts should keep a close watch on his progress as Spring Training unfolds.