If there was any lingering doubt about Grant Holmes’ role to start the Atlanta Braves 2025 season, Tuesday’s performance all but sealed the deal—this guy is headed for the rotation.
In his first official start of Spring Training, Holmes delivered exactly what Atlanta needed: five scoreless innings against the Detroit Tigers, allowing just a single hit. Now, was it all smooth sailing? Not exactly. The right-hander struggled with control, issuing three walks and hitting two batters.
But let’s be honest—when a guy posts a 0.90 ERA through three spring appearances, a few command issues aren’t going to overshadow the bigger picture.
A Strong Spring Performance
Holmes has quietly put together an impressive spring, beginning with two scoreless innings on Feb. 23 and following that up with three more strong frames on Feb. 28.
Both of those outings came in relief, but Tuesday marked his first true test as a starter. If the goal was to prove he belongs in Atlanta’s rotation to begin the year, mission accomplished.
The Athletic’s David O’Brien had already predicted that Holmes had one of those coveted rotation spots locked up. The reasoning? He’s out of minor-league options, meaning the Braves can’t stash him in Triple-A without risking losing him on waivers.
Unless something drastic happened—like an injury or a complete meltdown—Holmes was making the team. And Tuesday’s performance certainly wasn’t a meltdown.
How the Braves Rotation is Shaping Up
The Braves’ rotation to start the season has some key names locked in. Chris Sale, Reynaldo López, and rookie Spencer Schwellenbach will be the top three. Spencer Strider is working his way back and could return by late April. That means Atlanta still needs two more starters to hold things down.
Holmes entered camp competing for one of those openings alongside Ian Anderson, Bryce Elder, and AJ Smith-Shawver. According to O’Brien, Anderson is also a near-lock for the rotation because, like Holmes, he’s out of options.
That leaves Elder and Smith-Shawver on the outside looking in, likely starting the year at Triple-A.
What Happens When Strider Returns?
Looking back at Holmes’ 2024 season, there’s a lot to like. In 26 appearances (seven starts), he posted a solid 3.56 ERA with a 2-1 record, striking out 70 batters in 68.1 innings while keeping his WHIP at 1.185. He proved he could handle big-league hitters in the rotation or the bullpen.
The big question now? What happens once Strider returns? Holmes could stick in the rotation if he continues to impress, or he might shift into a long-relief role. Either way, it’s clear he will be a factor for the Braves in 2025.
At this point, it’s safe to say—Grant Holmes has arrived.
