Martín Pérez gets the start to close out the series finale in Arizona
Two games secured in the series, one to go for the win
ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 31: Martín Perez #33 of the Atlanta Braves pitches in the seventh inning during the game against the Athletics at Truist Park on March 31, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Matthew Grimes Jr. /Atlanta Braves/Getty Images) | Getty Images Though the Atlanta Braves came up a few runs short for the third win against the Arizona Diamondbacks yesterday, at least we’ve seen consistent quality starts from Bryce Elder to propel us to today’s series ending before the Braves head to Anaheim to face the Angels.
Let’s look at today’s pitchers. Martín Pérez has gotten the start, making this his second appearance and first official start with the team this season. His last game with the Athletics resulted in three strikeouts, only two hits, and no earned runs across 4.
1 innings out of the bullpen. The nod was going to either Jose Suarez or Pérez, and with the struggles Suarez displayed in his last appearance, having Pérez enter in for the start will be a nice way to get a feel for his command and approach, as we’ve seen bits and pieces during spring training. He had mentioned how healthy he felt for the first time since 2024 in the post-game presser for that game, remarking in his words how he had confidence in feeling well the following day without any worries.
This was especially great to hear, noting how he was held to 11 games last year with the Chicago White Sox due to injury, but still maintained a 3. 54 ERA and 1. 11 WHIP (4.