Braves manager Brian Snitker announced on Wednesday that injured starting pitcher Chris Sale will throw batting practice on Thursday. Sale, the reigning NL Cy Young winner, fractured his ribs diving to preserve a complete-game shutout against the New York Mets on June 18.

I think being able to get some innings under my belt this year is going to protect me for next year,” Sale said.

The Atlanta Braves' reigning Cy Young Award winner could miss the rest of the year after Brian Snitker provided a discouraging update.