The Braves optioned Owen Murphy to Triple‑A Gwinnett and selected the contract of veteran right‑hander Elieser Hernández before Sunday’s game against the Rangers. Murphy, 22, allowed three runs (two earned) in 2⅔ innings in his first major‑league start. Manager Walt Weiss said Murphy "threw fine" but "left some pitches over the plate. It was more about execution than anything else."

Hernández, 31, last pitched in the majors in 2024, compiling a 6.32 ERA in nine games for the Dodgers and Brewers. Over six seasons he is 10‑22 with a 5.10 ERA in 99 games, including 49 starts. Weiss notes important decisions to be made before the Aug. 3 trade deadline.

Left‑hander Martín Pérez has been on the injured list since July 6 with a left forearm contusion, but he threw in the bullpen on Sunday. Right‑hander AJ Smith‑Shawver may be close to completing rehabilitation after right elbow surgery; Weiss said Pérez "is on the radar" and Smith‑Shawver "will be in the conversation" after 4⅓ scoreless innings in Gwinnett. The Braves want to take a step forward with their starting pitching.

Ronald Acuña Jr. (strained left hamstring) could be close to returning from the injured list as he continues rehab at Gwinnett.