On June 7, Atlanta Braves starter Bryce Elder threw a masterpiece of a game against the San Francisco Giants.
Elder threw 8.0 innings, allowing only one earned run and striking out 12. It seemed to be an answer to the team's rotation concerns that perhaps Elder had turned back the clock to when the right-hander first emerged two seasons ago.
However, in the three starts since, Elder has given up 19 runs and including five home runs, and as many walks as strikeouts (8). It seems the starter is simply on the mound to toss batting practice to the opposing team. Elder's struggles serve as a reminder of how badly the front office has messed up by failing to add needed depth.
In fairness, it was hard to predict AJ Smith-Shawver, Reynaldo Lopez, and Chris Sale all going down. Still, it isn't going to be difficult to find an arm that gives you a better chance to win than the production that Elder is currently offering. At his best, the starter seeks out contact and is able to keep a game within reach. That is the version of Elder that first appeared on Atlanta's roster.
Braves Must Demote Bryce Elder in July
If the Braves' dying hope of turning the season around is going to continue to be relevant, changes must be made. This includes finding a younger piece that benefits from the innings or adding a player who gives you a better chance every five days. The 5.82 ERA and inability to pitch deep into games for the last two weeks are enough to make the tough decision to move on from Elder.
Atlanta cannot continue to throw away games, understanding the urgency of the situation they find themselves in. Already, it is fair to wonder if the hole is simply too deep for any reasonable comeback. With this in mind, the Braves must begin to make desperation moves, and this includes replacing Elder in the rotation.
Any remaining hope that the pitcher can offer any level of consistency is now gone. Elder has shown an inability to be relied on, and this doesn't help cover up a leaky Atlanta pen. All of this adds up to the obvious decision of moving on from a failing pitcher.