Home / Sports / Braves' Rotation Hinges on Durable Bryce Elder's Health
Braves' Rotation Hinges on Durable Bryce Elder's Health
19 Feb
Summary
- Bryce Elder found consistency in his final seven starts last season.
- Elder led the team in starts and innings pitched due to durability.
- His spot in the starting rotation depends on outperforming competitors.
Bryce Elder remains a pivotal figure as the Atlanta Braves finalize their starting rotation for the upcoming season. Elder has experienced both the highs of All-Star recognition and the lows of shuttling between the major and minor leagues.
His resilience and mental toughness have been noted by manager Walt Weiss, who highlighted Elder's consistent approach regardless of past results. Elder's ability to handle the emotional swings of a season has been a key trait.
Last season, Elder finished strong, recording a 2.82 ERA and 0.98 WHIP over his final seven starts, logging 44 2/3 innings. This performance has garnered significant attention from the coaching staff.
Crucially, Elder's health allowed him to make 28 starts and pitch 156 innings, leading the team. This durability is a major factor in his potential to retain a spot in the rotation.
Elder acknowledges that staying healthy enabled him to "eat the innings" and refine his pitching between starts. This consistent availability is vital for earning a long-term role.
The ultimate challenge for Elder involves outperforming other pitchers competing for rotation spots when games commence. His previous major league experience and the motivation of having no minor league options remaining are significant advantages.
