Martín Pérez continues to provide value for the Braves in the fifth spot of the rotation

Atlanta's pitching staff has gotten off to a good start and it sure helps when guys like Martín Pérez are getting it done

Apr. 12, 2026 at 5:11pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist-style painting depicting a baseball pitcher's motion broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in the colors of the Braves and Guardians uniforms.A cubist interpretation of Martín Pérez's pitching motion captures the veteran's resilience on the mound for the Braves.Cleveland Today

Martín Pérez delivered a solid outing for the Atlanta Braves, giving up just one run over five innings against the Cleveland Guardians. Despite the Braves' eventual loss, Pérez's performance was encouraging as he continues to fill the fifth spot in the team's rotation.

Why it matters

The Braves' pitching staff has been a strength early in the season, and Pérez's contributions as the fifth starter have helped maintain that momentum. As the team gets healthier, Pérez's role may change, but for now he is providing valuable innings and keeping the Braves in games.

The details

Pérez gave up a solo home run to José Ramírez in the first inning but settled in to pitch five innings, allowing just the one run. He said he felt as good as he has in a couple of years, with no pain in his arm. Braves manager Walt Weiss praised Pérez's veteran presence and ability to keep the team in games.

  • Pérez made his second start of the season on Saturday, April 12, 2026.
  • Pérez said the strong start is a continuation of how he felt at the end of last season with the White Sox.

The players

Martín Pérez

A veteran pitcher in the fifth spot of the Atlanta Braves' starting rotation, who delivered a solid outing against the Cleveland Guardians.

Walt Weiss

The manager of the Atlanta Braves, who praised Pérez's veteran presence and ability to keep the team in games.

José Ramírez

The Cleveland Guardians' star hitter, who hit a solo home run off Pérez in the first inning.

Parker Messick

The starting pitcher for the Cleveland Guardians, who held the Braves' lineup in check.

Spencer Strider

A Braves pitcher who is currently injured, but will eventually take over a spot in the team's rotation.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'Since I started throwing the ball this year, I feel better. Today was a good game, I was attacking the strike zone and I wasn't missing too far from the [strike zone]. Every time when I go out there, I feel better. I'm going to continue to do my job and continue to give the team the chance to win many games.'”

— Martín Pérez, Braves Pitcher

“'I think he's been really good. On top of [the two starts, he had] that relief appearance where he came in and saved our 'pen. He's been nice to have. He's a veteran, he knows how to handle himself, he's good in the clubhouse and and he's good to have around.'”

— Walt Weiss, Braves Manager

“'I'm just trying not to miss my spot for the second time. He's one of the best hitters in baseball and as a pitcher, it's about keeping the batter off of his timing. During the first inning, I went to the changeup after the fastball…and he got me. I made sure that the second at-bat I was going to throw the pitch I wanted so I knew I could get him now.'”

— Martín Pérez, Braves Pitcher

What’s next

Pérez will look to build on this strong outing when he makes his next start for the Braves. The team is also hoping that injured pitcher Spencer Strider will be able to return to the rotation soon, which could impact Pérez's role going forward.

The takeaway

Martín Pérez's solid performance as the Braves' fifth starter has been a key part of the team's strong start to the season. While his role may change as the team gets healthier, Pérez is proving he can provide valuable innings and keep the Braves in games when called upon.