The Atlanta Braves could soon get another boost for their pitching staff as signs continue to point toward Hurston Waldrep inching closer to a return.
For Braves fans, Waldrep’s name should sound familiar. The hard-throwing right-hander made a strong impression during his brief stint in the majors last season before an elbow issue delayed his progress heading into 2026. Now, with reports suggesting he is moving closer to rejoining the organization’s pitching plans, questions are beginning to emerge about how Atlanta might make room for him once he is ready.
Grant Holmes Could Face A Role Change
A recent suggestion is that Grant Holmes could see his role change when Waldrep returns.
According to Crosby, moving Holmes back into a utility pitching role may ultimately provide the greatest value to Atlanta. Holmes excelled in that capacity previously, serving as a versatile arm capable of handling multiple responsibilities. Whether starting games, working as a piggyback pitcher, covering relief innings, or bridging games to the bullpen, Holmes demonstrated an ability to adapt wherever the club needed him most.
That flexibility could become increasingly important if Waldrep proves ready to reclaim a spot in the rotation.
Waldrep Made An Immediate Impact
Atlanta invested heavily in Waldrep’s future when it selected him in the first round of the 2024 MLB Draft. After starring at the University of Florida, he wasted little time climbing through the Braves’ minor league system. His rapid ascent eventually led to a major league debut in 2025 during a period when Atlanta desperately needed rotation help.
Waldrep responded by showing why the organization was so high on him. Across 10 appearances, including nine starts, he posted a 2.88 ERA over more than 56 innings. The right-hander flashed the power arsenal that made him a coveted draft prospect and looked every bit like a pitcher capable of becoming a long-term fixture in Atlanta’s rotation.
That performance only increased expectations for what could come next.
Braves Return Timeline Remains Unclear
Exactly when that opportunity arrives remains uncertain. Waldrep is still working his way back from an elbow issue involving loose bodies that surfaced before the start of the 2026 season. While the injury interrupted what appeared to be a promising trajectory, the Braves have remained optimistic about his long-term outlook.
For now, the Braves will continue monitoring his rehab progress. If everything remains on schedule and no setbacks occur, a return sometime in July appears realistic. Until then, Waldrep remains one of the most intriguing names in Atlanta’s farm system and a player worth watching closely over the coming weeks as the Braves evaluate their options for the second half of the season.
