Braves Hurston Waldrep opted for Triple-A

After today’s 8-6 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays, the Atlanta Braves optioned starting pitcher Hurston Waldrep to Triple-A Gwinnet.

Waldrep, one of the Braves’ top prospects, has struggled in two starts since joining Atlanta. The 22-year-old right-hander has pitched just seven innings in his two starts, allowing 13 earned runs, walking eight and striking out just three. He pitched 3.1 innings in today’s game, allowing six earned runs while walking four and allowing two home runs.

Atlanta, which has been working with a six-player starting rotation, has yet to announce a corresponding roster move. The team opens a series against the Tigers in Detroit tomorrow night.

Waldrop, last year’s No. 1 overall draft pick, will look to get back on track with the Stripers where he started just one game after being promoted from Double-A Mississippi.