Grant Holmes' Remarkable Recovery Boosts Braves' Rotation

The Atlanta Braves pitcher has exceeded expectations after opting to rehab a partially torn UCL and flexor tendon rather than undergo surgery.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 3:11pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball pitcher's motion broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of navy blue, forest green, and burnt orange, conveying the unconventional nature of Holmes' recovery and its importance to the Braves.Grant Holmes' unorthodox recovery has been a key factor in the Braves' early-season success.Atlanta Today

When it was revealed last year that Atlanta Braves pitcher Grant Holmes had a partially torn UCL and flexor tendon, it was widely assumed he would need surgery. However, Holmes opted to just rehab the injury over the offseason and take his chances without surgery, a plan that was met with widespread skepticism. But Holmes has defied the odds, going at least five innings and 76 pitches through his first three starts of the 2026 season, helping the Braves' rotation weather early injuries to other starters.

Why it matters

Holmes' performance has been invaluable for the Braves, who started the season down three starters and had to play 13 games in a row before getting their first day off. His ability to go deeper into games has allowed the Braves to not have to rely too heavily on their bullpen, keeping it fresh and one of the best units in baseball.

The details

Despite the significant tears in his elbow, Holmes has been able to transcend the problem this season. He has a 2.55 ERA across a team-high 17.2 innings, though his FIP of 4.42 suggests some good fortune on batted balls. Nevertheless, Holmes' stuff has passed the eye test, and his performance has been critical for a Braves team that has exceeded expectations to start the year.

  • Holmes began this season with his elbow being compromised after opting for rehab over surgery.
  • Through his first three starts of the 2026 season, Holmes has gone at least five innings and 76 pitches.

The players

Grant Holmes

An Atlanta Braves pitcher who opted to rehab a partially torn UCL and flexor tendon in his elbow rather than undergo surgery, and has exceeded expectations to start the 2026 season.

Bryce Elder

The Braves' most productive pitcher to start the 2026 season.

Jose Suarez

A swing man and long reliever for the Braves.

Martin Perez

A swing man and long reliever for the Braves.

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What’s next

The Braves and their fans will continue to monitor Holmes' elbow health as the season progresses, hoping he can maintain his strong start and help anchor the rotation.

The takeaway

Grant Holmes' remarkable recovery and performance to start the 2026 season has been a major boost for the Braves, who have exceeded expectations despite early injuries to their pitching staff. Holmes' ability to go deeper into games has helped keep the bullpen fresh and contributed to the team's strong start.