ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - Prior to the Atlanta Braves’ series opener against the Houston Astros at Truist Park on Friday, right-hander Reynaldo Lopez threw 20 pitches off the mound and was entirely pain-free after several years of shoulder issues.

It was the second time he’s thrown off the mound since undergoing arthroscopic right shoulder surgery in April. Lopez made one start this season before he went on the injured list with shoulder inflammation.

“(Lopez has) been through a lot all year,” manager Brian Snitker said. “Hopefully, he gets to that point where he throws batting practice and can feel like he can have a normal offseason and not be in a rehab situation.”

It’s progress for the 31-year-old, who was slotted into the Opening Day starting rotation alongside Chris Sale

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