Braves Urged to Sign Chris Bassitt After Spencer Schwellenbach Injury Shakes Rotation

The Atlanta Braves are already facing adversity before the 2026 MLB season has even fully begun. Following a disappointing injury-plagued campaign last year, the team is once again dealing with a major setback, as young pitcher Spencer Schwellenbach is expected to miss significant time due to elbow issues.

With uncertainty surrounding Schwellenbach’s recovery timeline, analysts and insiders are urging the Braves to act quickly in free agency. One name repeatedly mentioned as a potential solution is veteran right-hander Chris Bassitt, a proven starter who remains unsigned and could provide immediate stability to Atlanta’s rotation.

Spencer Schwellenbach Injury Leaves Braves Searching for Depth

The Braves entered the offseason hoping for better health after injuries derailed their 2025 season. Instead, they now find themselves confronting another major pitching concern. Spencer Schwellenbach, who was expected to play a key role in the starting rotation, has been placed on the 60-day injured list with inflammation in his pitching elbow.

Reports indicate the situation may be more serious than initially believed. Schwellenbach has revealed that arthroscopic surgery to remove bone spurs from his elbow is a possibility, though the exact recovery timeline remains uncertain. If surgery is required, he could miss a substantial portion of the 2026 season—or potentially all of it.

This development has left Atlanta’s rotation thinner than expected and sparked calls for immediate action to avoid repeating last year’s struggles.

Chris Bassitt Emerges as Top Free Agent Target

Among the available free agents, Chris Bassitt has emerged as one of the most logical options for Atlanta. The veteran starter brings experience, durability, and clubhouse leadership—qualities the Braves could use while navigating another injury setback.

Stephen Tolbert of the Hammer Territory Podcast believes signing Bassitt should be a priority for the Braves front office.

“The Braves need to add more stability to the roster by adding more depth,” Tolbert said. “Go sign Chris Bassitt. That’s the easiest thing to do. Even if you have to overpay by like $5 million, I don’t care. You need the depth. You don’t want to have another lost season because you did nothing to address the rotation.”

Tolbert’s comments reflect a growing sentiment among Braves fans and analysts: standing pat could be risky given the team’s recent injury history. Adding a proven starter like Bassitt would provide insurance and help maintain competitiveness in a strong National League.

Familiarity With Braves Coaching Staff

One factor that could work in Atlanta’s favor is Bassitt’s previous relationship with Braves pitching coach Jeremy Hefner. The two worked together during their time with the New York Mets, creating a level of familiarity that could make Atlanta an appealing destination.

ESPN insider Buster Olney highlighted this connection while discussing potential free-agent fits for the Braves.

“As Braves assess the impact of Schwellenbach’s injury, worth noting that new ATL pitching coach Jeremy Hefner worked with unsigned free agent Chris Bassitt when both were with the Mets,” Olney wrote. “Bassitt has a reputation for being great in the clubhouse.”

That reputation could be especially valuable for a Braves team looking to maintain strong chemistry while navigating injuries and roster adjustments. Bassitt is widely regarded as a veteran presence capable of mentoring younger pitchers and contributing to a positive clubhouse environment.

Why Chris Bassitt Fits Atlanta’s Needs

Signing Bassitt would address several key needs for the Braves. The right-hander has consistently delivered reliable innings throughout his career, making him a dependable option in any starting rotation.

His experience pitching in high-pressure situations—including postseason appearances and a World Series start—would bring added stability to Atlanta’s staff. Additionally, Bassitt’s versatility allows him to adapt to different roles, whether as a mid-rotation starter or a veteran anchor during injury crises.

For a Braves team aiming to remain competitive in the National League, adding a pitcher with Bassitt’s track record could prevent the rotation from becoming a weakness.

Competition for Bassitt’s Signature

While Atlanta appears to be a logical landing spot, Bassitt is expected to draw interest from multiple teams around the league. Contenders seeking experienced pitching depth could view him as a valuable addition, potentially driving up his market value.

If the Braves are serious about signing Bassitt, they may need to outbid competing teams or offer a more appealing contract structure. Some analysts believe Atlanta should be willing to spend aggressively, even if it means paying slightly above market value, to secure the stability he would bring.

Given the uncertainty surrounding Schwellenbach’s availability and the team’s recent injury history, investing in a proven starter could be a necessary step to avoid another disappointing season.

Braves Face Critical Decision Early in 2026

The Braves’ front office now faces an important decision. They can either trust internal depth and hope for improved health or pursue an established free agent like Chris Bassitt to reinforce the rotation immediately.

With Schwellenbach’s timeline unclear and the National League becoming increasingly competitive, standing still could be a risky strategy. Signing Bassitt would not guarantee success, but it would significantly reduce the chances of another injury-driven collapse.

As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on Atlanta’s next move. Whether they act aggressively in free agency or rely on internal options, the Braves must find a way to stabilize their pitching staff—and quickly.

If they choose to pursue Chris Bassitt, it could be one of the most important decisions they make before Opening Day.