The Atlanta Braves have confirmed that right-handed pitcher Grant Holmes will start the second game of their series against the Chicago White Sox on April 5, 2024, at Guaranteed Rate Field, according to a statement from the team’s media relations department. Holmes, 29, will take the mound for the Braves’ second consecutive night game, following a 2023 season in which he posted a 3.89 ERA across 18 starts.
The decision marks Holmes’ first start of the 2024 MLB season, following a minor league rehab assignment after a 2023 elbow injury. The Braves’ pitching staff has been in flux this spring, with manager Brian Snitker citing “rotation flexibility” as a factor in the lineup change, per a March 28 press conference transcript. Holmes’ selection comes as the team seeks to stabilize its starting rotation ahead of the April 15 trade deadline.
Holmes’ Recent Performance and Role
Holmes, a 10-year MLB veteran, has a career 4.12 ERA across 152 games (134 starts) with the Texas Rangers, Cincinnati Reds, and Atlanta Braves. His 2023 season was limited to 18 starts due to a right elbow ulnar collateral ligament tear, which required Tommy John surgery in August 2023. The Braves’ medical team confirmed his return to full training in late March, per a March 29 team update.
During his rehab, Holmes pitched 22 innings across four minor league starts, allowing 15 runs (6.75 ERA) while striking out 18 batters. His fastball velocity has averaged 92.1 mph in spring training, slightly below his 2022 peak of 94.3 mph, according to MLB Statcast data. The team has not disclosed whether Holmes will be placed on a pitch count limit for the 2024 season.
White Sox’ Counterpart and Game Context
The White Sox have not yet announced their starter for the April 5 game, but their rotation includes left-hander Dylan Cease, who posted a 4.50 ERA in 2023. The game is part of a three-game series between the two teams, with the Braves holding a 3-2 lead in the season series through March 31, per MLB.com’s head-to-head standings.
The matchup carries significance for both clubs as they compete in the American League East. The Braves, currently in second place with a 12-8 record, aim to close the gap on the New York Yankees, while the White Sox (9-11) seek to avoid a third consecutive losing season. The game will be televised on FS1 and streamed via MLB.TV.
What to Watch Next
Holmes’ performance will be closely monitored by Braves’ scouts and analysts, as his 2024 role could influence trade discussions. The team’s front office has not commented on potential deals, but sources familiar with the organization suggest Holmes could be a “trade chip” if he demonstrates consistency. The White Sox, meanwhile, may look to leverage the game as a test for their young pitchers, including 22-year-old right-hander Luis Robert Jr., who has yet to make his 2024 debut.
Updates on the game’s outcome and player performance will be reported as they become available. Fans can follow live coverage on the Braves’ official website and the White Sox’ social media channels.
Atlanta Braves Official Site | Chicago White Sox Official Site
Follow us for the latest updates on Grant Holmes’ start and the Braves’ season. Share your thoughts below and join the conversation on social media.
