The Braves have a starting rotation problem.
The Atlanta Braves are already battling starting rotation uncertainty as a result of Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep's injuries. They are hoping that guys such as Bryce Elder, Reynaldo Lopez and Grant Holmes can step up and help Chris Sale and Spencer Strider in 2026. However, if Elder's latest spring training performance is an indication of what is to come, the Braves' starting rotation may be in an even worse position than initially imagined.
The Braves were defeated 9-8 on Sunday by the Tampa Bay Rays. Five of the Rays' nine runs came against Elder in his 3.1 innings of work. The right-handed hurler struck out two hitters while allowing three walks. He was not missing many bats, as Tampa Bay recorded six total hits against him.
Sure, it is only one spring training start. Elder could rebound. The 26-year-old's performance in recent years only further fuels concern, though.
Is There Reason to Believe Bryce Elder Will Figure Things Out?
Elder made his MLB debut in 2022 and pitched well across 10 outings. In 2023, he earned an All-Star selection and finished the year with a 3.81 ERA. It seemed as if the Braves had a reliable starter who could impact the rotation for years to come.
Elder was then limited to only 10 games pitched in 2024. He turned in a 6.52 ERA during that span, but there was no reason for panic since pitchers often struggle to find a rhythm when they are not consistently pitching in games.
The 2025 campaign saw Elder make 28 starts, but his performance failed to improve. He ultimately had a lackluster 5.30 ERA in 156.1 innings of work. It was a disappointing season to say the least, but Atlanta did not give up on Elder.
He is still only 26 years old. Elder may be able to figure things out and become a reliable MLB starting pitcher once again. Outings like the one he turned in on Sunday will not do much in the way of building confidence in him, however.
The Braves need Elder to pitch at a respectable level. Sale is an ace, but Strider was inconsistent in 2025. Lopez made only one start last year. Grant Holmes has been fine, but he only has 48 games of big league experience.
If Elder is unable to bounce back, the Braves may need to turn to another pitcher for the starting rotation to join Sale, Strider, Lopez and Holmes.