Reynaldo López Locks in Rotation Spot with Braves

Atlanta president of baseball operations confirms pitcher will start season in team's rotation.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Reynaldo López, the 28-year-old right-handed pitcher, has secured a spot in the Atlanta Braves' starting rotation for the upcoming 2026 MLB season. This was confirmed by Braves president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos in comments to local media.

Why it matters

López's inclusion in the Braves' rotation is an important development as the team looks to build on its recent success and compete for another division title and potential World Series run. The Braves have high expectations this season and solidifying their starting pitching will be crucial to their chances.

The details

Anthopoulos stated that López will be part of the Braves' starting five to begin the 2026 campaign. López was acquired by Atlanta in a trade last July and made a strong impression in his 12 starts down the stretch, posting a 3.71 ERA. The Braves are counting on the right-hander to build on that performance and provide stability in the middle of their rotation.

  • Anthopoulos made the announcement on Friday, February 14, 2026.

The players

Reynaldo López

A 28-year-old right-handed pitcher who was acquired by the Atlanta Braves in a trade last July and will open the 2026 season in the team's starting rotation.

Alex Anthopoulos

The president of baseball operations for the Atlanta Braves, who confirmed that Reynaldo López will be part of the team's starting rotation to begin the 2026 season.

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What they’re saying

“Reynaldo López will open the season in our rotation. We're excited to see what he can do for us over a full year.”

— Alex Anthopoulos, President of Baseball Operations (The Atlanta Journal-Constitution)

What’s next

The Braves will monitor López's performance closely during spring training as he prepares for the start of the 2026 regular season.

The takeaway

The Braves' decision to include López in their starting rotation demonstrates their confidence in the right-hander's ability to be a reliable and productive member of their pitching staff as the team aims to build on its recent success and compete for another division title and potential World Series championship.