Walt Weiss Reveals Grant Holmes Plan After Disastrous Start

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Walt Weiss Reveals Grant Holmes Plan After Disastrous Start

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Aug 16, 2026 2:58 PM ET

Atlanta Braves manager Walt Weiss confirmed Grant Holmes will remain in the starting rotation after the right-hander struggled against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Holmes allowed six earned runs in 3 2/3 innings in his latest start, but the poor outing will not change Atlanta's plans for him. The decision comes as the Braves continue navigating injuries within their rotation.

Holmes has posted a 7-5 record with a 3.82 ERA across 117 2/3 innings this season. He had also delivered consecutive six-inning scoreless outings against the Miami Marlins and New York Yankees before his difficult night against Arizona.

Walt Weiss said Grant Holmes will make his next start. He didn't give credence to idea Holmes could move to bullpen. "He's been a really good starter for us for a while now."

AJSS coming up as a reliever "is an option."
— Gabe Burns (@GabeBurnsAJC) August 16, 2026

The 30-year-old has made 24 appearances, including 23 starts, while recording 97 strikeouts. His 1.35 WHIP has helped establish him as an important piece of Atlanta's rotation despite occasional stretches of inconsistency.

The Braves also have limited alternatives available. Reynaldo López remains on the 15-day injured list with left knee inflammation, while Spencer Strider continues his recovery from right elbow inflammation on the 60-day IL.

Bryce Elder remains another active rotation option, but he has also experienced recent struggles. He allowed seven earned runs over five innings in a loss to the New York Mets.

Atlanta's need for Holmes is underscored by its position in the standings. The Braves entered Sunday at 73-50, leading the National League East by 7.5 games over the Philadelphia Phillies.

Atlanta Braves pitcher Grant Holmes (66) Arianna Grainey-Imagn Images

With the Braves still chasing the best record in the National League, Weiss appears willing to give Holmes an opportunity to respond rather than make a reactionary rotation change after one poor start.

The decision also gives Holmes a chance to rebuild momentum after an outing that was sharply different from his recent run of success. His next start should provide the clearest indication of how quickly he can move past the setback.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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