As the Atlanta Braves prepared for their series against the Baltimore Orioles, the organization also made several moves within its farm system, highlighted by the promotions of infielder Colby Jones and left-handed pitcher Riley Frey from High-A Rome to Double-A Columbus.
The transactions were first shared by Braves Today‘s Lindsay Crosby on July 23, who reported several changes across the organization.
According to Crosby, right-handed pitcher Luke Sinnard was assigned to the Florida Complex League for a rehabilitation stint. Jones and Frey both earned promotions from Rome to Columbus, while infielder Malvin Fernandez moved from the Florida Complex League to Rome. Right-handed pitcher Jaylen Paden was transferred from the seven-day injured list to the 60-day injured list.
Colby Jones Earns the Next Opportunity
For Jones, the move to Double-A comes after an encouraging first full professional season. The Braves selected the infielder in the 13th round of the 2024 MLB Draft out of Northwest Florida State, and he quickly established himself as one of the organization’s more active baserunners.
In 78 games with the Rome Emperors this season, Jones stole 27 bases, demonstrating the speed that has become one of the most notable parts of his game. Reaching Double-A is another important step in his development, as the competition generally becomes more experienced and presents a greater challenge for young prospects.
Riley Frey Joins Jones in Columbus
Frey is also advancing after spending the season with Rome. The left-hander was selected by Atlanta in the 19th round of the 2023 MLB Draft out of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
Across 24 appearances this year, Frey compiled a 2-1 record with a 4.15 ERA. While his numbers reflect a season of continued development, the Braves clearly saw enough progress to move him up to Double-A, where he will face more advanced hitters and continue working toward higher levels of the minor leagues.
The Rome Emperors acknowledged the promotions in a social media post on July 23, writing, “Called up! INF Colby Jones and LHP Riley Frey have been promoted to Double-A Columbus.”
Additional Braves Organizational Moves
Along with promoting Jones and Frey, the Braves also adjusted several other minor league assignments. Sinnard’s move to the Florida Complex League will allow the right-hander to continue his rehabilitation, while Fernandez advances from the Florida Complex League to Rome. Meanwhile, Paden’s transfer from the seven-day injured list to the 60-day injured list reflects another roster adjustment within the system.
For Jones and Frey, the promotions represent another step forward as they continue their development in the Braves’ organization. With both players now heading to Double-A Columbus, they will have the opportunity to prove themselves against more advanced competition during the remainder of the season.
