Whether or not the Atlanta Bravesare going to get any contributions from Bryce Elder in a potential postseason run remains a mystery. The starter was forced to undergo surgery that has him missing the final weeks of the season and serves as a reminder for the mystery the right-hander continues to be. Elder will finish out the 2026 season with a 4.11 ERA in 149.0 innings pitched and spent long stretches appearing to be Atlanta's best starting option after Chris Sale.
More than once, it was easy to argue that it was Elder who deserved the second start in a potential Braves postseason series. A take that didn't age incredibly well over Elder's last four starts, with 16 runs given up in 22.1 innings of work. This took what was a respectable ERA and pushed it above four and reminded Atlanta fans of the worst version of Elder.
After spending most of the 2026 season proving why he was counted out far too early, the late season implosion has left the starter's status as a bit of a mystery. The Braves are heading into next season with no shortage of rotation options and are expected to add at least one veteran.
Whether Elder stands in all of this is unclear based on how things finished and the unknown as to whether or not he will make it back and contribute in the postseason. Elder will unquestionably remain a big part of the upcoming offseason conversation and could become a potential trade chip.
Braves Continue to Consider Uncertain Future of Right-Handed Starter Bryce Elder
Elder's exact return remains unknown, but the right-hander is clearly expected to have a postseason roster spot if he is healthy. Atlanta's pitching options have dwindled over the last three months as injuries have mounted. After Chris Sale, there isn't a lot of clarity as to how the franchise is going to navigate a potential postseason series.
No question, it will be interesting to watch how the Braves choose to utilize Elder and whether it was the injury that contributed to his struggles over his final four starts. There simply isn't an easy answer based on the highs and lows of a player who has offered both extremes.
A lot of the starter's future is going to depend on how aggressive Atlanta opts to be in adding to the rotation and whether or not top prospects are able to stay healthy and take the expected leap. No question, it is quietly one of the more interesting decisions facing the Braves.
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