The Atlanta Braves are entering the 2026 MLB season with renewed determination after a disappointing 2025 campaign that saw them finish 76–86, land fourth in the NL East, and miss the postseason.
For a franchise accustomed to contending for division titles and World Series appearances, last year’s performance was a significant setback. Now, as spring training approaches, the Braves are focused on achieving a bounce-back season — but early injury concerns are already threatening to complicate those plans.
Atlanta Braves Looking for a 2026 Rebound
The Atlanta Braves entered the 2025 season with high expectations but struggled to find consistency throughout the year. Injuries, inconsistent pitching, and bullpen instability combined to derail what many believed would be another playoff push.
A record of 76–86 marked one of the team’s most disappointing finishes in recent seasons. The Braves found themselves trailing divisional rivals in the National League East, ultimately falling short of postseason contention. As the organization prepares for 2026, addressing weaknesses — particularly in pitching — has become the top priority.
Pitching Problems Defined the 2025 Season
One of the most glaring issues for Atlanta in 2025 was its pitching staff. While the Braves still possessed offensive firepower, their pitching rotation and bullpen failed to provide the consistency needed to compete deep into the season.
The bullpen lacked depth, forcing starters to shoulder heavier workloads. Unfortunately, many starters delivered uneven performances, creating a ripple effect that placed additional pressure on relievers. Games that were within reach often slipped away late, and Atlanta struggled to maintain leads.
Throughout the offseason, team executives emphasized the need to strengthen pitching depth and improve reliability across the rotation. The emergence of promising young arms was expected to play a major role in that effort — which is why the recent injury news surrounding one of their top young pitchers is particularly concerning.
Hurston Waldrep Injury Deals Early Blow
Young right-handed pitcher Hurston Waldrep had been expected to take on an expanded role in Atlanta’s rotation in 2026. However, during live batting practice, Waldrep experienced discomfort in his throwing arm, prompting immediate medical evaluation.
An MRI conducted shortly thereafter revealed “loose bodies” in his right elbow — a condition that typically requires a medical procedure to remove bone or cartilage fragments from the joint. While the full timeline for recovery remains uncertain, early reports indicate that Waldrep will likely need a procedure to address the issue.
The timing of the injury could hardly be worse. Occurring just before spring training games begin, it disrupts Atlanta’s rotation plans and forces the team to once again reassess its pitching depth before the regular season even starts.
Positive News: No Ligament Damage
Despite the concerning diagnosis, there is at least one encouraging aspect of Waldrep’s medical report. The MRI revealed no ligament damage in his elbow, which significantly improves his long-term outlook.
Ligament injuries — particularly to the ulnar collateral ligament — often require Tommy John surgery, a procedure that can sideline pitchers for a year or more. Avoiding such a diagnosis means Waldrep’s recovery timeline could be considerably shorter, depending on how the procedure and rehabilitation process unfold.
For the Braves, this offers hope that the young pitcher could return at some point during the 2026 season rather than missing the entire year.
Waldrep’s Breakout Performance in 2025
Waldrep’s potential absence is especially frustrating given how impressive he was in 2025. At just 23 years old, he emerged as one of Atlanta’s most promising pitching prospects and delivered standout performances whenever he took the mound.
Over ten appearances and 56 innings pitched, Waldrep compiled a 6–1 record with a 2.88 ERA and 55 strikeouts. His ability to generate swings and misses, combined with improved command, made him one of the most effective young pitchers on the roster.
This represented a dramatic improvement from his rookie season, during which he struggled significantly. In his first brief stint in the majors, Waldrep appeared in only two games, issued eight walks, and recorded just three outs while posting a 16.71 ERA. The contrast between that rocky debut and his 2025 breakout demonstrated his rapid development and resilience.
By the end of last season, Waldrep had established himself as a legitimate rotation option and a key piece of Atlanta’s pitching future. His early 2026 injury now threatens to delay that momentum.
Increased Pressure on Veteran Pitchers
With Waldrep likely sidelined to begin the season, the Braves will need to rely heavily on their veteran pitchers to stabilize the rotation. Experienced arms will be tasked with providing consistency while the team waits for its young talent to return.
Former Cy Young winner Chris Sale remains one of the most prominent names in the rotation. When healthy, Sale continues to demonstrate elite strikeout ability and leadership on the mound. His presence will be critical in anchoring the staff and setting the tone for younger pitchers.
Similarly, star right-hander Spencer Strider is expected to play a central role. Known for his high-velocity fastball and dominant strikeout numbers, Strider has become one of the most exciting pitchers in baseball. A strong and healthy season from him could help offset Waldrep’s absence and keep Atlanta competitive.
Additional contributions will be needed from pitchers like Reynaldo LĂłpez and Grant Holmes, who may be asked to step into larger roles. Their ability to deliver quality innings and maintain consistency could determine how well the Braves navigate the early part of the season.
Offensive Leaders Must Also Step Up
While pitching has been the primary focus, Atlanta’s success in 2026 will also depend on its offensive core. Star third baseman Austin Riley remains one of the team’s most important players and a key figure in any potential turnaround.
Riley’s production in the middle of the lineup provides stability and power, and his leadership will be vital as the Braves attempt to regain their competitive edge. A strong offensive showing could help compensate for early pitching challenges and keep the team in contention.
Navigating Uncertainty Early in the Season
Injuries are an inevitable part of baseball, but their timing can dramatically impact a team’s trajectory. Losing a promising starting pitcher just before spring training games begin forces Atlanta to adjust quickly and test its organizational depth.
The Braves’ front office and coaching staff will need to evaluate potential replacements, consider bullpen adjustments, and manage workloads carefully to avoid further injuries. Early-season performance could shape whether the team remains competitive in a tough division or falls behind once again.
At the same time, patience will be required. If Waldrep’s procedure and recovery go smoothly, he could still play a meaningful role later in the season. His return would provide a midseason boost and potentially strengthen the rotation for a playoff push.
A Crucial Season Ahead for Atlanta
The 2026 season represents a critical juncture for the Braves. After missing the postseason and finishing below expectations in 2025, the organization is eager to reestablish itself as a contender. Achieving that goal will require improved pitching, consistent offense, and better overall health.
Waldrep’s injury is an early setback, but not an insurmountable one. With experienced veterans leading the rotation and a talented lineup capable of producing runs, Atlanta still has the tools needed to compete. Much will depend on how effectively the team adapts to adversity and whether its pitching staff can maintain stability until reinforcements arrive.
As spring training unfolds and the regular season approaches, Braves fans will be watching closely. The path back to contention will not be easy, but with resilience and strong performances from key players, Atlanta hopes 2026 will mark the beginning of a successful turnaround.
