One of the most surprising developments to come from the Atlanta Braves' hot start to the 2026 season has been their incredible depth in the rotation. Injuries had appeared to destabilize what was expected to be a strong rotation, forcing what were thought to be underwhelming pieces into action. This gave opportunity for some surprise contributors who have made the most of their chances and given the Braves a tough decision.
With Spencer Strider closing in on a return, the Braves will be tasked with demoting another starter despite having just moved Reynaldo Lopez to the bullpen. With this in mind, let's look at Atlanta's projected rotation once Strider returns and the most sensible way to create room as the Braves continue to face difficult decisions.
1. Chris Sale
There isn't a world in which Sale is in danger of losing his starting spot despite how talented Atlanta's rotation might be. The left-hander is clearly the team's ace and sets the tone for the rest of the staff. It is hard not to fall in love with Sale's bulldog mentality and the clear emotion he shows on the mound. Fans never have to question how invested the lefty is or how much care is put into every start.
When the Braves make the 2026 postseason, it will be Sale taking the bump in Game 1 of their first series and continuing to sit atop the rotation. Every time the veteran takes the mound is must-watch television for Atlanta fans who continue to appreciate the stability of the veteran.
2. Spencer Strider
It is hard not to be optimistic about Strider's chances of turning back the clock to his best self. Two rehab starts have been incredibly impressive and shown an ability to utilize control that was inconsistent a season ago. If Strider lives up to expectations, he will be the team's second-best option upon his return.
There was a time not long ago when Strider not only appeared destined for the top of Atlanta's rotation but looked to be one of the league's best starters. If the Braves find a way to bring this version of Strider back, the rotation will truly be unstoppable, featuring the league's deepest list of options.
3. JR Ritchie
Ritchie isn't going anywhere anytime soon after making his debut and showing complete confidence after giving up an early run. The starter settled in and gave the Braves 7.0 strong innings in his debut while striking out the same number of batters. Ritchie was on fire throughout spring training, and that translated to the Gwinnett Stripers, with the right-hander continuing to mow down batters and show impressive growth.
As long as this version of Ritchie continues to show up, the Braves have no choice but to include the young starter in the rotation. It is exciting to consider the heights he could reach working with a talented group that offers Sale's wisdom and clear, contending expectations. Ritchie is an exciting addition and a player Braves fans are paying close attention to.
4. Bryce Elder
After compiling miserable numbers over the last two seasons, Elder has reinvented himself, becoming a fantastic bottom-of-the-rotation option. While there won't be huge strikeout numbers or high velocity, Elder gets the most out of his pitches and has already gone six or more innings in four starts this season.
The ability to pitch deep into games is an elusive trait, giving Elder a clear leg up on the rest of the competition for the bottom of Atlanta's rotation. Barring major struggles over the next few weeks, it is hard to see anyone displacing this version of the right-hander.
5. Grant Holmes
Based on past production, Holmes barely holds onto the final rotation spot over Martin Perez. With that said, the starter clearly needs a strong outing or two to stabilize his standing in the rotation. Holmes has managed to make it past the fifth inning only once in his last three starts. His recent inability to pitch deep into games has been noted and could eventually push the right-hander into the bullpen.
However, there is more attachment and upside with Holmes over the veteran Perez, who was never expected to fill a role of his current magnitude. The most sensible decision is to put the veteran in the bullpen as long relief and an option to replace Holmes if the starter hits any bumps in the road.
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