Should the Braves use a six-man rotation?
The Atlanta Braves' starting pitching rotation has been a subject of discussion in recent weeks. With Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep both injured, it remains to be seen how Atlanta will ultimately utilize its starting rotation. Chris Sale, Spencer Strider, Reynaldo Lopez and Grant Holmes are all expected to have rotation spots, but each of those pitchers have dealt with injury concerns in recent seasons. While Atlanta is already without Schwellenbach and Waldrep, would the team consider going with a six-man rotation to begin the season?
Braves manager Walt Weiss is reportedly still pondering the idea, per Mark Bowman of MLB.com. Bowman adds that Atlanta is scheduled to play 13 consecutive games to begin the new campaign, so the writer believes such a rotation "makes sense" to start the season.
Which Pitchers Would be in a Potential Six-Man Rotation?
As mentioned, Sale, Strider, Lopez and Holmes will be in the rotation as long as they are healthy. Which other candidates could join them in the rotation? After all, the Braves' starting pitching depth is not as deep as it once was given the aforementioned injuries.
Bryce Elder is a candidate. The right-handed hurler struggled in 2025 but has found success in the past. Left-hander Joey Wentz -- who is versatile and can pitch as a starter or reliever -- could also be an option. AJ Smith-Shawver, a young right-handed starter, may also be in the conversation.
Elder may be the guy if Atlanta goes with a five-man rotation. If the team does implement the six-man rotation, then they will have another big decision to make.
Should Braves Go With a Six-Man Rotation?
For those who may be unaware, a five-man rotation is most common during the regular season. Teams in the past have turned to a six-man rotation in specific circumstances. For example, teams that Shohei Ohtani has pitched for often consider six-man rotations given everything Ohtani does on the field. The extra day of rest proves to be important.
While the Braves don't have any two-way players on their pitching staff, the six-man rotation could still be a good option. As Bowman mentioned, Atlanta has a busy schedule early in the year. Additionally, giving pitchers with recent injury history extra rest is not a bad decision.
The Braves would not have to go with the approach all season long. At some point, they could turn back to a five-man rotation -- unless all six starters are pitching at a high level.