Image Source: Battery Power
Rockies vs Braves action returns to Truist Park on Friday night, with Atlanta looking to carry its momentum from a dramatic sweep of the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Braves enter the series at 79-55 and have won four consecutive games, while the Colorado Rockies arrive at 52-82 after another difficult season.
The matchup offers Atlanta an opportunity to reach 80 wins and continue building pressure in the National League playoff race. First pitch is scheduled for 7:15 p.m. ET in Atlanta.
Rockies vs Braves Preview: Grant Holmes Takes the Mound
Grant Holmes will start for Atlanta, bringing an 8-5 record and a 3.64 ERA into the series opener. The right-hander has delivered several encouraging performances during August, posting a 2.49 ERA for the month.
Holmes has completed six innings in three of his four August outings, producing quality starts against the Miami Marlins, New York Yankees and Chicago White Sox. His lone rough appearance came on August 15 against the Arizona Diamondbacks, when he allowed six earned runs in 3.2 innings.
With Reynaldo López expected to return soon, Holmes’ performance could have important consequences for the Braves’ rotation. Another strong start would strengthen his case to remain in the starting five, while a setback could force Atlanta to consider a bullpen role.
A Fresh Bullpen Gives Atlanta an Edge
The Braves should have a well-rested bullpen behind Holmes after Chris Sale delivered a shutout against the Dodgers on Thursday. Sale’s outstanding outing protected Atlanta’s relief corps and gave manager Brian Snitker more flexibility entering the Colorado series.
That rest could become especially valuable if Holmes struggles to work deep into the game. Atlanta has played winning opponents extremely well this season, recording a 37-23 mark against teams with records above .500. However, the club has been less consistent against teams it is expected to defeat, making Friday’s opener a critical test of focus.
Tomoyuki Sugano Starts for the Rockies
Colorado will counter with right-hander Tomoyuki Sugano, who is 12-7 with a 4.96 ERA. Sugano is in his second MLB season after making his debut with the Baltimore Orioles in 2025. Before coming to Major League Baseball, he spent 12 seasons as an ace with the Yomiuri Giants.
Sugano was also teammates with Yoshinobu Yamamoto on Team Japan at the World Baseball Classic. He features a seven-pitch arsenal led by his split-finger fastball, four-seam fastball and sinker. He also mixes in a cutter, sweeper, slider and occasional curveball.
One of Sugano’s biggest strengths is his command. His walk rate ranks among the best in MLB, placing him in the top seven percent of the league. However, his recent results have been concerning. Over his last eight innings, including appearances against the Los Angeles Dodgers and Cleveland Guardians, he has surrendered 16 hits and 12 runs, 11 of them earned.
The Braves will hope their offense can continue showing signs of life after producing a powerful series against Los Angeles. Lane Thomas and Dominic Smith are the only Atlanta hitters with previous experience against Sugano. Thomas is 1-for-6 against him, while Smith is hitless in two at-bats with one strikeout.
Key Rockies Hitters Have Seen Holmes
Several Colorado hitters have faced Holmes before. Hunter Goodman and Connor Norby lead the Rockies with six total at-bats against him. Goodman and Troy Johnston each have a double, while Mickey Moniak owns the only home run against the Atlanta starter.
Zac Veen, Cole Carrigg and Brett Sullivan have not faced Holmes. Limiting Colorado’s middle-of-the-order threats early could help the Braves avoid another unexpected stumble against a lower-record opponent.
Braves Seek Win No. 80 at Truist Park
Atlanta’s lineup will receive an important boost with Ronald Acuña Jr. returning to hit cleanup, although Austin Riley is scheduled to receive a day off. The Braves will need production from their remaining regulars as they attempt to extend the winning streak to five games.
- Game: Colorado Rockies at Atlanta Braves
- Date: Friday, August 28, 2026
- Time: 7:15 p.m. ET
- Location: Truist Park, Atlanta
- Starting pitchers: Grant Holmes vs. Tomoyuki Sugano
- Television: BravesVision
- Streaming: MLB.tv
- Radio: 680 AM, 93.7 FM The Fan, and La Mejor stations
As reported by Battery Power, the stakes are straightforward: Atlanta wants win No. 80, a fifth consecutive victory and a strong start against another National League West opponent. The Rockies will try to prevent another series-opening setback and avoid falling deeper into a season defined by losses.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Rockies vs Braves game?
The game is scheduled for Friday, August 28, 2026, at 7:15 p.m. ET.
Who are the starting pitchers?
Grant Holmes is scheduled to start for Atlanta, while Tomoyuki Sugano will take the mound for Colorado.
Where will the game be played?
The Rockies vs Braves matchup will be played at Truist Park in Atlanta, Georgia.
What is at stake for the Braves?
Atlanta is chasing its 80th win of the season and a fifth consecutive victory after sweeping the Los Angeles Dodgers.
