Braves rotation hit hard with spring training injuries, so what pitching options are left for Atlanta?
CBS Sports
by
Mike Axisa
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Atlanta Braves are facing a significant challenge as they head into spring training, with key pitchers Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep sidelined due to elbow surgeries. Both will miss several months of the 2026 season after undergoing procedures to remove loose bodies from their elbows. Manager Walt Weiss acknowledged the inevitability of such injuries in baseball but expressed frustration over the setbacks. While these surgeries are not as severe as Tommy John operations, they still leave Atlanta's rotation thin and injury-prone.
The Braves' starting pitching depth is already concerning, with multiple hurlers on the injured list or returning from injuries. Their rotation includes several high-risk pitchers like Grant Holmes (recovering from a partial UCL tear) and Reynaldo López (who missed most of last season with a shoulder injury). Bryce Elder appears to be their most reliable option, though he carries a 5.26 ERA over nearly 300 innings since the 2023 All-Star Game. The team also saw young pitcher Didier Fuentes struggle in his debut last season, further complicating their depth issues.
With Schwellenbach and Waldrep out, the Braves must explore alternatives to fill their rotation gaps. Free agency remains an option, though they missed signing Chris Bassitt, a potential mid-rotation starter. Unsigned pitchers like Zack Littell, Lucas Giolito, Max Scherzer, Patrick Corbin, and Tyler Anderson could offer immediate help. The Braves' ability to add experienced starters will be crucial as they aim to rebuild their rotation while contending for the playoffs.
The Braves' injury struggles highlight the risks of relying on a young, injury-prone pitching staff. Their inability to strengthen the rotation in free agency leaves them scrambling to find reliable options before Opening Day. The outcome of this season hinges on how well they can navigate these challenges and rebuild their starting lineup, making it an intriguing story for baseball fans tracking Atlanta's playoff hopes.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/20/2026