The Atlanta Braves offseason has left fans buzzing—and not always in a good way. With no big moves made so far, fans are left trying to figure out which young arm will step up to solidify the starting rotation.
With Charlie Morton heading to Baltimore on a one-year, $15-million deal and Max Fried signed with the New York Yankees, the Braves’ rotation is missing two key pieces. Sure, Spencer Strider will take Fried’s spot once healthy, but the question looms: who fills Morton’s role?
While there’s been little chatter about external acquisitions, it’s time to explore in-house options. Let’s break down the candidates who might step up for Atlanta in 2025.
Ian Anderson: Braves World Series Hero
Remember Ian Anderson? Once the postseason darling of Atlanta, injuries have kept him out of the big leagues for over two years. Yet, the 26-year-old has shown resilience, spending 2024 rebuilding in the minors.
With a career 3.97 ERA and 262 strikeouts over 272 1/3 innings, Anderson’s numbers suggest he’s more than capable of contributing.
He was instrumental during the Braves’ 2021 World Series run, boasting a stellar 1.59 ERA in October. If his health holds, he could make a compelling case for a rotation spot this spring.
Grant Holmes: 2024 Rookie Showed Big Upside
Holmes might not be the flashiest choice, but the 28-year-old rookie proved dependable in 2024.
Over seven starts, he posted a 4.01 ERA, not far from Morton’s 4.19 ERA. Holmes has the stamina to pitch deep into games, delivering seven innings in a start—a rare feat in today’s game.
As a fifth starter, he offers reliability, which is often undervalued in back-end rotation roles.
AJ Smith-Shawver: Braves Prospect With Huge Potential
Smith-Shawver’s potential is undeniable. At just 22 years old, he’s shown flashes of brilliance despite battling injuries that sidelined him after one start last year.
The Braves still trusted him with a Wild Card Series Game 1 start, signaling high expectations.
In seven MLB appearances, he posted a solid 3.64 ERA with 24 strikeouts over 29 2/3 innings. If he stays healthy, Smith-Shawver could be a key rotation piece.
Hurston Waldrep: Big Upside But Rocky MLB Debut
Waldrep’s MLB debut last season was rocky, with a 16.71 ERA over two starts. Yet, his Triple-A numbers tell a different story: a 3.38 ERA with 43 strikeouts in 40 innings.
The Braves clearly value him, and Spring Training could be a chance for the 22-year-old to make a strong case for a midseason call-up.
Drue Hackenberg: Prospect Tearing Up the Minors
Finally, there’s Drue Hackenberg, a name not many saw coming. The 22-year-old rocketed through the Braves’ system, finishing the season with a 1.52 ERA over four Triple-A starts.
His 3.07 ERA across 25 minor league starts suggests he’s close to MLB-ready. Though a 2025 debut might seem unlikely, stranger things have happened—just ask Spencer Schwellenbach.
The Braves Have Young Talent, But Still Unproven
The Braves’ rotation situation may not inspire confidence just yet, but these internal options give fans plenty to watch as Spring Training approaches.
Whether Atlanta opts for a known quantity like Anderson or takes a gamble on a prospect like Hackenberg, one thing’s clear: the team’s depth will be tested.
