Conway, SC — Local baseball star and Conway High School alumnus Grant Holmes made a triumphant debut in Major League Baseball on Sunday, pitching for the Atlanta Braves. Holmes’ journey to the big leagues, which culminated in a standout performance on Father’s Day, is a testament to his perseverance and talent.
In his debut, Holmes, 28, pitched three scoreless innings in relief for the Braves. He struck out two batters and allowed only two hits, showcasing the skills that had long promised his ascension to the majors. This achievement is particularly remarkable given Holmes’ long and arduous path through the minor leagues, where he spent a decade honing his craft across 11 different teams before getting his call-up.
Holmes’ career began with a bang at Conway High School, where he graduated in 2014 as a standout pitcher. His potential was recognized early on when he was drafted in the first round of the MLB Draft by the Los Angeles Dodgers. However, the road to the majors proved winding and filled with challenges. Despite the setbacks, Holmes remained resolute in his pursuit of his big-league dreams.
Anthony Carroll, Holmes’ former coach and now the athletic director at Conway High, reflected on the significance of Holmes’ journey. “I don’t think that you could find anybody better to represent Conway right now,” Carroll said. “When you think about the attributes that he has, which is perseverance, I mean…the kid stuck with it for ten years, for yesterday. And I think that says a lot about him and can teach us all a lot that sometimes we have to persevere to get to where we want.”
The significance of Holmes’ debut was heightened by the presence of his family. His parents, who still reside in Conway, traveled to Atlanta to witness their son’s achievement firsthand. The debut on Father’s Day added an emotional layer to the occasion, making it a moment of pride and joy for the Holmes family.
As Holmes steps into his new role with the Braves, his story serves as an inspiration to his hometown and aspiring athletes everywhere. His tenacity and dedication exemplify the rewards of unwavering commitment and the fulfillment of long-held dreams.