The Atlanta Braves announced on Sunday that right-handed pitcher Grant Holmes has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to inflammation in his right elbow. This development comes at a difficult time for the team, which now has all of its opening day starting pitchers sidelined with various injuries, intensifying concerns around the Braves’ pitching depth.
Details of Holmes’ Elbow Issue and Recovery Outlook
Holmes experienced elbow discomfort during his most recent appearance, where he pitched four innings while allowing four runs. At first, the team described his condition as mild elbow tightness, but subsequent medical evaluations revealed the need for extended rest and treatment. Manager Brian Snitker had anticipated this move prior to the official announcement, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding Holmes’ recovery timeline.
Through 22 games this season, Holmes has maintained a solid 3.99 ERA, making him an important piece of the Braves’ rotation. However, his injury adds to the growing number of pitchers currently unavailable, as the entire starting rotation from opening day—including Chris Sale, Spencer Schwellenbach, Reynaldo López, and AJ Smith-Shawver—remains on the injured list, mostly on long-term 60-day designations.
Rotation Moves and Remaining Starters
With the rotation heavily impacted, Spencer Strider and Bryce Elder are the primary starters still available to the team. Although Joey Wentz has made a few starts recently, he has not been officially included in the rotation depth chart. Given the shortage, Wentz may be called upon to take on a larger role as the Braves navigate through these pitching challenges.
The organization remains hopeful for the return of Sale and Schwellenbach in the near future. Meanwhile, Smith-Shawver is recovering from Tommy John surgery and is expected to miss the remainder of this season and part of the next. López is anticipated to come back in a bullpen role rather than as a starter, which leaves the Braves adjusting to a patchwork pitching staff for the foreseeable future.
Daysbel Hernández’s Return Provides Relief to the Bullpen
In a positive development, the Braves recalled right-hander Daysbel Hernández from Triple-A Gwinnett. Hernández has proven to be a dependable reliever this year, posting an impressive 2.10 ERA across 30 appearances. His return is timely as the bullpen faces increased workload due to the injuries afflicting the rotation.
Outlook as Braves Face Upcoming Challenges
As the Braves prepare for their Sunday series finale against the Kansas City Royals, the team’s pitching situation remains fragile. The effectiveness of the rotation and bullpen will be crucial in the coming weeks as they aim to maintain competitiveness in a tightly contested season. Adapting strategically to these setbacks will be essential for the Braves to manage their roster and continue pursuing success.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Grant Holmes’ hair naturally curly?
A. Holmes mentions his hair is naturally curly and says he hasn’t had a real haircut since 2017.