Grant Holmes Recovery Surprises Braves, Eyes Bold 2026 Comeback
As the offseason progresses, the recovery journey of Atlanta Braves right-hander Grant Holmes is taking a promising turn. Recent updates indicate that his rehabilitation from a partially torn UCL is exceeding expectations. The goal is clear: to be ready for Spring Training, and the possibility is looking bright. Even if his timeline doesn’t align perfectly, Holmes is on track to return to the mound in 2026 — a significant development, especially considering that surgery would have sidelined him for a much longer period.
Potential Impact as a Starting Pitcher
Before succumbing to injury, Holmes had established himself as one of the Braves’ most dependable starters. He consistently delivered six innings per outing during a challenging stretch for the team, when injuries were rampant among pitchers. His absence forced the Braves to scramble for replacements, highlighting his value to the rotation.
If he can regain his stamina and return to a starter’s workload, Holmes has the potential to provide quality innings every five days. The depth in starting pitching is crucial, especially given the frequency with which teams face injuries. Should he begin the season in the bullpen, as is a possibility, his experience would still serve as a valuable safety net for the rotation, ready to step in if another starter faces setbacks.
Role as a Reliever
There are two compelling reasons Holmes might find himself working out of the bullpen this season. Firstly, his recovery could dictate a more conservative approach, with limited innings to ensure he remains healthy. Secondly, the Braves are poised to add another arm to their roster, which could push Holmes into a relief role as competition heats up.
This shift to the bullpen isn’t necessarily a drawback for Holmes. The Braves are in need of additional depth in their relief corps, and he has shown promise in that capacity throughout his career. With a 3.03 ERA in 20 relief appearances, Holmes has proven he can perform under pressure. His background as a starter also gives him the flexibility to serve in a long relief role; for instance, if a starter like Chris Sale pitches deep into a game, Holmes could easily step in to handle the final innings, allowing the rest of the bullpen to recharge.
Holmes’ Versatility is Key
The versatility that Holmes brings to the table is significant. He has successfully navigated both starting and relief roles in the past, demonstrating an ability to adapt to the needs of the team. This adaptability not only underscores his value to the Braves but also positions him as a crucial piece of their pitching staff moving forward.
Regardless of the path he takes this season, as long as Holmes remains healthy, he is likely to secure a prominent role within the Braves’ pitching strategy. With the team’s aspirations high, having a player of his caliber ready to contribute can make all the difference in their pursuit of success.
