Braves designate Jonny Venters for assignment

The Braves made a tough decision on Wednesday, designating left-handed reliever Jonny Venters for assignment. The move comes as part of a day of roster-shuffling for the Braves, who added six players to their 40-man roster in advance of tomorrow's deadline to protect prospects from the Rule 5 draft.

Venters, 29, will likely miss the entire 2015 season after undergoing his third Tommy John surgery in September, but a major-league source notes that he is looking to make a comeback and pitch in the big leagues again at some point. Indications are that Venters is expected to clear waivers and become a free agent, with the Braves likely to have interest in bringing him back on a minor-league deal so that he can continue his rehab as a member of the organization.

Venters has not pitched in the majors since 2012, but was dominant in three seasons with Atlanta. The former All-Star posted a 15-10 record along with a 2.23 ERA in 230 appearances between 2010 and 2012, evolving into one of the league's elite setup men.