The Atlanta Braves have officially entered their second week of Spring Training with hopes of returning to the postseason after narrowly missing out last year. However, early preparations for the 2026 MLB season have already been overshadowed by a familiar and frustrating problem: injuries to the starting rotation. What was expected to be a fresh start has quickly turned into another test of depth, resilience, and roster flexibility.

Braves Enter Spring Training with Playoff Aspirations

Atlanta arrived at Spring Training motivated to rebound from a disappointing 2025 season in which injuries to key pitchers significantly hindered the team’s ability to compete. The starting rotation, once considered a strength, was heavily impacted by health issues throughout last year, ultimately derailing the Braves’ playoff push. Entering the offseason, strengthening the rotation was viewed as a top priority.

Yet just days into Spring Training, the Braves’ pitching concerns resurfaced in dramatic fashion. On the first day of camp, it was revealed that promising young right-hander Spencer Schwellenbach had already suffered an injury setback. According to reports from MLB insiders, Schwellenbach was placed on the 60-day injured list due to inflammation in his right elbow.

The injury announcement immediately raised concerns across the organization and among fans. MLB.com reporter Mark Bowman noted that the team hopes Schwellenbach is dealing with bone spurs rather than a more serious structural issue. If the diagnosis proves less severe, there is optimism he could return later in the season. Still, losing a talented 25-year-old pitcher for at least two months creates an early challenge for Atlanta’s rotation depth.

Hurston Waldrep Injury News Adds to Rotation Concerns

As if Schwellenbach’s injury was not enough, the Braves received additional troubling news over the weekend involving another young pitching talent. Right-hander Hurston Waldrep began experiencing arm discomfort after throwing batting practice, prompting the team to order further medical testing.

Manager Walt Weiss revealed that an MRI showed no ligament damage in Waldrep’s arm, which is certainly encouraging. However, the imaging did uncover “loose bodies” in his elbow—small fragments that can cause pain and restrict movement. As a result, Waldrep may require a surgical procedure to remove the debris and restore full functionality.

While the absence of ligament damage reduces the likelihood of a catastrophic injury such as a torn UCL, the situation remains serious. Even a minor cleanup procedure would likely sideline Waldrep for weeks or months, significantly reducing his chances of contributing early in the season. For a Braves team already thin on starting pitching, this development represents another major setback.

Waldrep was coming off a strong season and had been viewed as a key candidate to secure a spot in the starting rotation. His potential absence now forces Atlanta to reconsider its depth chart and explore alternative solutions much earlier than expected.

Braves Miss Out on Zac Gallen as Market Tightens

The Braves’ pitching dilemma worsened when one of the top potential free-agent targets was suddenly taken off the market. Over the weekend, the Arizona Diamondbacks re-signed star pitcher Zac Gallen to a one-year contract worth $22.025 million, with a significant portion deferred. Gallen had been widely viewed as a possible fit for Atlanta as they searched for reliable starting pitching.

The deal, first reported by MLB insider Bob Nightengale, effectively removed one of the most appealing options from the free-agent market. For the Braves, missing out on Gallen is a significant blow. With multiple injuries already affecting the rotation, adding a proven starter like Gallen could have provided stability and experience.

Instead, Atlanta now finds itself with fewer external options and increasing urgency. Remaining free-agent pitchers are limited, and teams across the league are still evaluating their rosters during Spring Training. This environment makes it more challenging for the Braves to secure a short-term solution without overpaying or sacrificing future flexibility.

Rotation Depth Under Pressure

The Braves’ pitching staff is already beginning to feel the pressure of mounting injuries and shrinking options. Entering Spring Training, Atlanta hoped to build momentum and solidify its roster. Instead, the team is once again scrambling to piece together a competitive rotation.

While internal options remain on the table, relying heavily on inexperienced pitchers carries its own risks. Young arms may be forced into larger roles earlier than anticipated, and the organization must carefully balance development with immediate performance needs. At the same time, the front office may continue monitoring the free-agent market for veteran pitchers who could provide short-term support.

The timing of these injuries makes the situation even more challenging. With Opening Day approaching and roster decisions looming, Atlanta has limited time to evaluate replacements and implement contingency plans. Every additional setback increases the urgency to find reliable innings and prevent further strain on the bullpen.

Braves Face Critical Weeks Ahead

Despite the difficult start to Spring Training, the Braves remain focused on finding solutions. The organization understands that injuries are an unavoidable part of baseball, but the frequency and timing of these setbacks have created a particularly challenging scenario. Rebuilding rotation depth and maintaining competitiveness in a strong National League will require strategic decision-making and adaptability.

The coming weeks will be crucial for Atlanta as medical evaluations continue and roster battles intensify. Positive updates on injured pitchers could ease some concerns, but the team must also prepare for the possibility of extended absences. Whether through internal development or external additions, the Braves will need to act decisively to stabilize their pitching staff.

As Spring Training continues, one thing is clear: Atlanta’s path back to the playoffs will depend heavily on how effectively it navigates this early wave of injuries. With the season fast approaching, the Braves are already feeling the pressure to respond—and the margin for error continues to shrink.