Despite losing the series opener, the Atlanta Braves found a way to claw back and take the series from the Los Angeles Dodgers in what should be a tone-setter for an already incredible season. Winning the rubber match was none other than Bryce Elder, with the starter going 5.1 innings against a potent Dodger lineup and giving up zero runs and a lone hit, while striking out eight in what was a clear statement of a performance.
There is no more wondering if this is the real Elder or simply a hot start to the season. Going on the road in a stadium that has historically been a source of nightmares for Elder and dominating at the level he did serves as the final blow. The right-hander has clearly established himself as an innings eater and a valued piece of Atlanta's rotation.
Elder has gone 4-1 with a 1.81 ERA to start the season, offering an elite level of production that leaves no questioning his role on this team. It has been an incredible turnaround for a player who four months ago appeared to be on his way out of Atlanta. The past two seasons had offered little consistent production, and the Braves had a stacked roster of options to choose from when it came to their starting rotation.
Injuries to Hurston Waldrep and Spencer Schwellenbach changed this and forced Elder into a role that there is now no prying away from the right-hander. Seeing Elder so composed and in control of his complete arsenal against what many believe to be the league's best lineup makes it undeniable.
Braves Can't Help but View Bryce Elder as Future Building Block After Hot Start
What makes this start from Elder so incredible is that it is the exact version of the pitcher the Braves watched at the start of the 2023 season. While there have been some adjustments in his delivery, the confidence and willingness to attack hitters are the keys. It was the 2023 season that Elder became an All-Star and appeared to be an important piece of Atlanta's roster moving forward.
Two years and a lot of bumps later, and it again appears that Elder is going to be in Atlanta's rotation for some time. While Waldrep and Schwellenbach are still expected back at some point in the 2026 season, it won't be Elder's roster spot that is in danger any longer.
Looking at current levels of performance, it wouldn't be a surprise to see Grant Holmes demoted to the Atlanta bullpen to help make room. Regardless of how the decision is made, it is great to see Elder turning the corner and defying expectations after being a liability at times over the past two seasons.
For Elder, considering how elite the numbers have been, there should be some regression expected, but as long as the starter's approach remains the same, there is no reason to believe Elder won't continue to eat innings and give the Braves a chance to win each and every time he takes the mound.
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