In North Port, Florida, Atlanta Braves manager Walt Weiss expressed optimism after strong performances from pitchers Grant Holmes and Reynaldo López during spring training. Both players are working to recover from serious injuries that sidelined them last season, and their recent outings have bolstered the team’s pitching rotation as they prepare for the 2024 MLB season.
Weiss noted, “It makes me sleep a little easier at night, for sure,” reflecting on the encouraging signs from both pitchers. The Braves faced unsettling news earlier this spring when they learned that Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep would miss at least two months following right arthroscopic elbow surgery. Compounding the situation was uncertainty surrounding López, who underwent season-ending surgery on his right shoulder last year, and Holmes, who was sidelined in August due to a partially torn flexor tendon and ulnar collateral ligament.
Encouraging Developments for the Rotation
While Weiss has concerns regarding the health of key players, recent performances have provided a much-needed boost. During a recent outing, Spencer Strider showcased his velocity, clocking in at 97 mph on the radar gun. López also received positive feedback after altering his changeup grip, and Holmes exited a tie game against the Orioles after 2 2/3 innings without allowing a run.
“I know how important our pitching is, especially with those guys coming off injuries last year,” Weiss stated. “There’s been a lot of positives this camp, and that’s right near the top, the way our starting pitchers look.”
The Braves currently have a unique situation with their starting rotation, featuring six potential starters. With Holmes, Bryce Elder, and Joey Wentz all out of options, the team faces a decision on how to utilize their depth. Schwellenbach and Waldrep’s injuries amplify the need to manage their pitching resources effectively.
Individual Performances Stand Out
Among the standout pitchers, Chris Sale, the 2024 NL Cy Young Award winner, continues to impress despite his age and injury history. This spring, 13 of his 63 fastballs have reached 96 mph or faster, a notable improvement compared to his struggles last season.
Strider also showed promise, reaching 96.7 mph and averaging 95 mph during a recent outing. Although his velocity is not yet at the level seen during his dominant performances in 2023, he has demonstrated improvement in his mechanics and pitch effectiveness.
López, a 2024 All-Star, has effectively varied his fastball speeds, consistently reaching over 96 mph while improving his slider and changeup. His recent outings have shown promise, with a new grip on the changeup leading to successful results against hitters.
Holmes believes his UCL tear might have been pre-existing and showed his resilience by touching 96.1 mph during a recent game. He secured a strikeout against five of the nine swings he faced with his cutter, slider, and changeup, hinting at his potential for a strong season ahead.
As for Elder and Wentz, one will likely emerge as the fifth starter, while the other may serve as a backup option or reliever. Elder has historically struggled during spring training, but allowing just one run through his first two starts is seen as a significant achievement as they approach the regular season.
With the season rapidly approaching, the Braves are hopeful that the strong performances from Holmes and López will continue, allowing the team to navigate their injury challenges effectively. The dynamics of their pitching rotation will be crucial as they strive for success in the upcoming season.
