Walt Weiss Makes Pitching Decision Amid Bryce Elder Injury Development

Bryce Elder's knee issue has forced the Atlanta Braves to make a change to their rotation plans as they enter a crucial stretch of the regular season. Manager Walt Weiss confirmed that the right-hander will not make another start for at least a week and will instead be available out of the bullpen. Elder has continued pitching despite the knee ailment, but the Braves are giving him some time away from the rotation rather than placing him on the injured list. The move also gives Atlanta flexibility with Reynaldo Lopez returning to the starting rotation. According to Chad Bishop, Weiss outlined the Braves' upcoming pitching plans with Elder moving temporarily to relief duty. The decision comes after a difficult stretch for the 27-year-old, who has allowed 16 earned runs and 30 hits, including five home runs, across his last four outings. Starting today, says Walt Weiss, Bryce Elder will move to the bullpen temporarily and could start during the Cubs series Sept. 14-16 https://t.co/K0VZSSQcaS Elder has made 26 starts this season and owns an 8-8 record with a 4.11 ERA and 121 strikeouts across 149 innings. Despite the recent struggles, his availability remains important for a Braves team trying to maintain its position in the National League East. Mark Bowman provided the injury update, reporting that Elder's knee is still bothering him and that he will not start again for at least another week. He will remain available in relief while the Braves monitor how he responds. The rotation will now feature AJ Smith-Shawver, Lopez and Martín Pérez against the Tampa Bay Rays. Chris Sale is scheduled to start Friday against the Philadelphia Phillies, with Tyler Mahle likely following him Saturday. The timing gives Atlanta an opportunity to manage Elder's workload without completely removing him from the pitching staff. His ability to provide length out of the bullpen could also give Weiss another option if a starter exits early. If the knee responds well, Elder could potentially return to the rotation during Atlanta's upcoming road series against the Chicago Cubs. For now, the Braves appear focused on keeping him healthy while strengthening their pitching options for the final weeks of the season. ALSO SEE: Copyright 2026 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved This story was originally published September 7, 2026 at 3:44 PM.