Martín Pérez clears waivers but elects free agency

Apr 11, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Martin Perez (33) throws against the Cleveland Guardians in the second inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images | Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Former Atlanta Braves starter pitcher Martín Pérez has cleared waivers after the team designated him for assignment on April 12, 2026. The team optioned him to Triple-A Gwinnett, but the veteran lefty elected free agency.

Pérez, who made two starts and three appearances with Atlanta after his contract was selected in the first week of the regular season, was signed as a minor league free agent this past off-season. The 35-year-old has pitched in 328 games – including 281 starts – since debuting with the Texas Rangers in 2012.

Atlanta is currently working with a four-man rotation but will not need a fifth starter until April 21. Should Pérez opt to return to the organization, it is possible he could be in-line to make a start the next time the Braves need a fifth starter. Injured starting pitcher Spencer Strider is on a rehab assignment and likely won’t be ready within the next week.

Pérez tossed 14.1 innings for Atlanta, striking out six with a 0.910 WHIP and 3.14 ERA and 3.86 xERA. His xFIP of 4.51 in 2026 is an almost exact match with his career 4.52 xFIP.