The entire Braves Opening Day rotation is currently on the 60-day IL. Before the club’s series opener with the Milwaukee Brewers, manager Brian Snitker provided a slew of updates on the guys, hinting some could return as early as this season.
Perhaps the most notable of the bunch: Grant Holmes will attempt to rehab his elbow injury without undergoing surgery in hopes that he can pitch in 2026. Of course, there are no guarantees, but if Holmes were to undergo surgery this late in the season, he’s likely looking at a return in 2027 no matter when he elects to have the surgery.
#Braves’ Grant Holmes will first try non-surgery rehab option for his elbow rather than Tommy John or other procedure. Made decision after weighing opinions from 2 docs. If not improving by offseason, could have surgery, which would sideline him all of 2026 even if he had it now.
— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) August 4, 2025
If Holmes’ attempt is successful, it would be a massive improvement to the current outlook of the Braves 2026 roster, especially given his versatility as both a starter and reliever.
Additionally, Spencer Schwellenbach has yet to start throwing after being diagnosed with a fractured elbow. It’s still possible he could return later this season, but it’s starting to feel highly unlikely. Chris Sale, on the other hand, is getting very close to returning from a fractured rib cage.
Chris Sale is progressing toward a return this season. #Braves lefty threw a bullpen session and will throw live BP before much longer.
— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) August 4, 2025
Reyaldo Lopez is a little further behind Sale, but he’s also begun playing catch.
On the position player side of things, Ronald Acuña Jr. is progressing well from the calf strain he suffered a little over a week ago. He hit in the batting cage but will continue to get treatment, as the Braves ease him back with extreme caution.
#Braves' Acuña (calf strain) continues to get treatment. He hit in the batting cage today, Snitker said. No timetable, he's day to day and they'll wait until he's pain-free before activating him.
— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) August 4, 2025
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