Braves Manager Addresses deGrom Trade Reversal and Rotation Outlook

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 22: Manager Walt Weiss #22 of the Atlanta Braves looks on before the game against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park on June 22, 2026 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images)

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The Braves entered the season hoping for a robust starting rotation, but injuries forced a continual re‑evaluation of their pitching depth. Efforts to bolster the staff at the trade deadline fell short of the frontline acquisition many had anticipated, though the rotation has since begun to show signs of stability.

One week after criticism over the lack of a major starter, the Braves are now considering whether Reynaldo López and AJ Smith‑Shawver can secure spots in the rotation. According to MLB.com’s Mark Bowman, the situation isn’t about an excess of options, but rather the fact that a rotation once labeled thin now appears to have no glaring deficiencies.

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Entertaining a strong playoff push, the Braves can at least be reassured that their pitching depth will not thin further. However, the front office came close to acquiring five‑time All‑Star Jacob deGrom from the Texas Rangers. The 38‑year‑old exercised his no‑trade clause, effectively halting a deal that the Braves and Rangers had largely finalized. The extensive negotiations prompted Texas to seek deGrom’s approval before proceeding.

Atlanta’s disappointment over missing out on deGrom was evident, especially given the pitcher’s indication that his decision was driven by a desire to “win” with the Rangers. “It’s a little surprising at first,” Braves manager Walt Weiss told the Atlanta Journal‑Constitution, “but that’s a personal decision for a player.”

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Now the Braves must determine whether their current pitching staff can sustain them through the remainder of the season. López and Smith‑Shawver are likely to see increased roles if Atlanta’s health improves. Rather than immediately pursuing another established starter, the organization may give its internal prospects an opportunity to fill the gaps.

The setback regarding deGrom does not diminish the disappointment he represented as a potential anchor for a rotation that has endured significant uncertainty. Still, Weiss acknowledged that deGrom’s personal choice must be respected. The larger question now is whether Atlanta can demonstrate that it did not need the former Cy Young winner as desperately as the early part of the season suggested.

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