Weiss had some kind words for Holmes after he turned in six scoreless innings on Tuesday night.
When the Atlanta Braves did not acquire a frontline starter ahead of the MLB trade deadline on Monday, it indicated that their trust is strong in what they currently have in their starting rotation.
That rotation consists of ace Chris Sale, who has been dominating, and the newly acquired Tyler Mahle. Bryce Elder, who has struggled after a strong start to the year, remains alongside two productive starters in Martín Pérez and Grant Holmes.
Holmes, who has been a backend starter for the Braves, has quietly had himself a very good campaign that has helped keep the team’s rotation afloat. On Tuesday, he turned in a start that left the Braves encouraged about their starters going forward.
Against the Miami Marlins on Tuesday, Holmes tossed six plus scoreless innings, allowing just five hits and striking out five batters. It was the first time he pitched into the seventh inning since April 8th against the Los Angeles Angels.
Braves manager Walt Weiss was very pleased with the effort in the team’s first game since the deadline. Holmes’ effort was not only a testament to the state of the rotation, but of his progress to date as a reliable starter.
“He’s capable, and he’s been a really solid starter for us,” Weiss said, per MLB.com. “When he has a hiccup, it’s usually just one inning where he struggles. There’s been times (where) he gets through that inning, he rights the ship again.”
In 22 games this season, Holmes made 21 starts and has made his stint in the rotation count. In 108 innings this season, the 30-year-old has posted a 3.67 ERA and owns a 1.34 WHIP. He is only seven innings away from matching his career-high from last season.
Initially, the Braves were unsure of how Holmes would fit into their mix when he joined the team and made his major league debut in 2024. He spent most of his rookie season as a reliever, but proved he could start at a productive level and has been a starter since the start of 2025.
Tuesday’s outcome for Holmes could not have been more of a relief for Atlanta to see after what could be described as a troubling deadline. In the meantime, all signs are pointing to further trust in Holmes down the stretch.
“Just developing into a good major league starter. We weren't sure what he was when we first got him,” Weiss said. “He’s shown that he can start in this league. He’s done both and he’s been effective in both roles.”
