Contending teams do not usually enter spring training with a ton of position battles on the horizon. Despite winning 76 games last season, the Atlanta Braves look to have the makings of a winning roster thanks to their impressive offseason. We still have over a month of the offseason remaining, but most fans could pencil in the Braves projected lineup right now. However, that does not mean Atlanta's spring training will be without some healthy competition.
Instead of everyday position battles, roster spots may be won and lost within the starting rotation. Alex Anthopoulos still has time to add another dependable starter to the current mix, but as things stand right now, Reynaldo Lopez, Grant Holmes, and Hurston Waldrep could be battling for the final two spots in the rotation this spring.
Hurston Waldrep, Filthy Splitters. 😷 pic.twitter.com/ejeu4N7USm
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) August 31, 2025
Who the Braves choose for the rotation could make or break their season
Each rotation candidate has a legitimate argument to open the 2026 season in the starting five. Waldrep feels like the man with the lowest odds, mainly because of his limited experience and remaining minor league options. Waldrep's 2.88 ERA in 2025 showcased he has made significant progress as a prospect, but it feels as if he may begin the season as Atlanta's sixth man in an effort to preserve his arm for the gull grind of a Major League season.
Holmes has been one of Atlanta's best stories across the last two seasons, but an elbow injury scare in 2025 gives the fanbase plenty of reason to be concerned he can make it through a full season in 2026. Additionally, Holmes debuted in 2024 out of Atlanta's bullpen, so a move back into a relief role is not out of the question.
Finally, we arrive at Reynaldo Lopez who missed nearly all of 2025 with an injury to his shoulder. Lopez is set to make the most money in 2026 among these three pitchers, which is no small thing. Lopez was an All-Star in 2024 as a starter, but just two years ago he was a weapon out of the White Sox's bullpen. Each pitcher has versatility, talent, and upside, so spring training results could be a huge factor in deciding who begins the season in the rotation.
Ultimately, each of Lopez, Holmes, and Waldrep will likely make starts for the Braves in 2026. However, who they choose to begin the season with could influence how strongly the Braves start next year. Fans do not want to live through another miserable opening week like they did in 2025, and picking the right fifth starter legitimately could be difference in which NL East team takes the division crown. As we've heard before, you can't win the division in April, but you can certainly lose it.