When the Atlanta Braves entered the season, there were few expectations for Martin Perez, who once was designated for assignment early in the year, pointing to his standing at the time. The left-hander was viewed simply as emergency depth and a bullpen option that could eat innings or step in if injuries struck. This proved to be the case, and Perez didn't hesitate to embrace a role bouncing between the bullpen and rotation, offering the Braves anything they asked for.
Manager Walt Weiss noted more than once his appreciation for the attitude of Perez, with the southpaw doing nothing but showing his want to contribute and find a way to help win. This has continued throughout the summer and led to Perez cementing himself in the rotation and even leaving recent reason to consider whether or not a postseason appearance could be on the horizon.
Perez has worked to the tune of a 2.96 ERA through 106.1 innings pitched this season. This number includes his bullpen stints as well as what has now become a stabilized role within Atlanta's rotation. One that has been highlighted over the last three starts, as Perez has worked 16.0 scoreless innings in his last three appearances.
It is important to note here that the lesser innings are due to the second start lasting only 3.0 innings pitched due ot a rain delay. Still, the last three outings are undeniably impressive and point to an underdog story that deserves far more credit.
Braves Must Give Martin Perez More Credit for 2026 Accomplishments
Perez has gone from a piece not expected to make Atlanta's roster to one who is undeniably going to be on the postseason roster, and has a viable argument at the moment to make a postseason start. While much can change over the final month plus of the season, there is no denying just how impressive of a story that the left-hander has been.
It shouldn't come as a surprise that Perez found a second life when you look at his career and consider the adjustments made throughout an accomplished resume. This includes playing a relief role for the Texas Rangers in a World Series win in the 2023 season.
No question, Perez has given himself a second life, and the Braves would be lost without him, having little proven depth to lean on if another injury strikes. Hurston Waldrep, Spencer Strider, and Spencer Schwellenbach all remain on the shelf, with it appearing increasingly unlikely that any of this trio is going to be capable of returning in the 2026 season or in a potential playoff run.
With this in mind, Perez continuing to produce at his current level is incredibly important and would give Atlanta a clear starter to lean on after Chris Sale. It will be interesting to watch if Perez can take advantage of this chance and continue building momentum.
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