How the Atlanta Braves should line up their current rotation options has been a source of debate due to injuries and struggles from what were productive pieces. With this in mind, it is fair to realize that any way that the current group shakes out is going to have a fair share of question marks outside of Chris Sale.
With this in mind, let's look at how the Braves should shape the current rotation until further additions are made. Starting with the aforementioned ace who is the one source of consistency from the current group.
1. Chris Sale
As of now, the veteran southpaw is the only arm that the Braves know they can rely on every fifth day. It is the unfortunate reality compared to a month ago, when it seemed there were overwhelming options that made upcoming decisions impossible. Now, Sale is the unquestioned ace sitting atop the rotation and has given the team every reason for confidence moving forward.
2. Reynaldo Lopez
Throw out the results this season and remember that two years ago the right-hander was an elite starting option. Lopez had an ERA under two and was a force in the middle of the rotation. This was a large sample size and more success than most of the team's current options can boast. It is time to continue to show patience and lock Lopez into a starting role, hoping that you can find the version of the starter that showed up in the 2024 season.
3. Hurston Waldrep
It is understandable that the Braves are being careful with the talented starter after an injury to start the season. However, Waldrep is far too talented and Atlanta too desperate for the starter to remain in the bullpen. Follow the same path you've utilized with Lopez and stretch Waldrep out in an effort to recapture the elite presence that the right-hander was a season ago.
4. Bryce Elder
Elder went from one of the league's most elite pitchers to a frustrating liability over the last few weeks. Still, the franchise has little option but to remain patient and hope that the All-Star break serves as a needed reset. Elder simply is needed, with the lack of options fans are reduced to hoping the production can find a middle ground between the early-season dominance and getting shelled over his last three outings.
5. Martin Perez
Perez lacks talent at this stage of his career, but his heart and willingness to fill any role cannot be questioned. What Perez offers is a reliable ability to complete five innings and give your offense a chance to get the early jump. It makes a lot of sense to demote Perez to the bullpen if the Braves are able to get their rotation back fully healthy or make a surprise trade deadline addition.
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