Atlanta, Ga. – The Atlanta Braves head into the National League Division Series (NLDS) against the Los Angeles Dodgers with a depleted rotation. Right‑hander Bryce Elder, 27, and left‑hander Martin Perez, 35, will not be on the active roster for the opening game on Saturday.
Injuries keep key starters out
Elder underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right knee on Sept. 8. Despite throwing live batting‑practice sessions, he has not been cleared to pitch. The former 2023 All‑Star was 8‑8 with a 4.11 ERA in 26 starts this season and is 32‑32 with a 4.46 ERA in 105 career appearances for the Braves.
Perez was placed on the injured list retroactive to Sept. 21 because of lower‑back inflammation. He finished the regular season 9‑9 with a 3.04 ERA in 30 appearances (26 starts). Over 15 seasons with seven clubs, Perez has a career line of 100‑102 with a 4.30 ERA in 355 games (305 starts).
Manager optimistic about depth
Manager Walt Weiss remained upbeat, saying, “We’re hoping, if we advance, that Bryce is in that conversation. He looks really good. It’s pretty amazing how far along he is after his surgery.” Weiss added that Perez is in a similar situation, noting, “If we advance, there’s a chance there.”
Weiss also addressed the status of outfielder Lane Thomas, who missed the wild‑card round with a left intercostal strain. Thomas, acquired from the Kansas City Royals on Aug. 2, was a .224 hitter with 11 home runs and 40 RBIs in 118 games this season. Weiss expressed confidence that Thomas will be ready for the best‑of‑five series against the Dodgers.
Series outlook
The Dodgers enter the series with a healthy staff, while the Braves must rely on bullpen depth and the versatility of their remaining starters. Atlanta’s ability to adapt will be a test of the team’s resilience and Weiss’s strategic adjustments.
Both clubs are looking to advance to the National League Championship Series, where the winner will move on to the World Series. The NLDS begins on the road Saturday, with the first two games slated for Los Angeles.
Key numbers at a glance
- Bryce Elder – 8‑8, 4.11 ERA (26 starts)
- Martin Perez – 9‑9, 3.04 ERA (30 appearances)
- Lane Thomas – .224 average, 11 HR, 40 RBI (118 games)
Fans in Atlanta and across the nation will be watching closely to see how the Braves navigate these injuries and whether their depth can carry them past the Dodgers.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
