Mike Foltynewicz (illness) could begin the season on the disabled list, MLB.com reports.

Foltynewicz (illness) could begin the season on the disabled list, MLB.com reports.

Analysis:

A blood clot in his right arm gave Foltynewicz a major scare at the end of last season -- doctors said it was life-threatening -- and forced him to undergo surgery in September to remove the anterior half of his first rib. Fortunately, the 24-year-old was said to be looking good physically and emotionally as he played long toss at Turner Field on Monday, but he will be a couple weeks behind schedule when spring training begins later this month. Down approximately 15 pounds from a season ago, Foltynewicz seems to have the floor of a late-inning reliever, but the rebuilding Braves could give him another chance in the rotation once he's back to full strength.