The Atlanta Braves have received troubling injury updates in their pitching department just weeks before the start of the 2026 MLB regular season. With Opening Day fast approaching, the Braves now face significant uncertainty surrounding two promising arms: Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep.

These developments have sparked concern among fans and analysts alike, especially as Atlanta looks to rebound from a challenging 2025 campaign marked by injuries and inconsistency.

Spencer Schwellenbach Undergoes Surgery Ahead of 2026 Season

On Wednesday, the Braves announced that Spencer Schwellenbach underwent surgery to remove loose bodies from his elbow. The procedure immediately casts doubt on his availability for the early portion of the 2026 season. Schwellenbach had been expected to play a meaningful role in Atlanta’s pitching plans, and losing him for any stretch of time is a significant blow.

According to Mark Bowman of MLB.com, the Braves are not currently providing a definitive recovery timeline for Schwellenbach. That lack of clarity raises concerns about how long he may be sidelined and whether he will be able to return at full strength.

While the removal of loose bodies is generally considered a less severe procedure than ligament reconstruction surgery, recovery timelines can vary widely depending on inflammation, healing response, and overall arm health. For a young pitcher still establishing himself at the Major League level, even a moderate delay can disrupt development and rhythm.

Hurston Waldrep Facing Similar Procedure

As if one injury setback wasn’t enough, Hurston Waldrep is also scheduled to undergo a similar procedure. Waldrep will have surgery on Monday to address loose bodies as well. Like Schwellenbach, he does not have an official timetable for return.

Braves manager Weiss stated that he hopes both pitchers will be able to pitch again this year, but the organization is understandably cautious about setting expectations. The absence of a recovery schedule suggests that Atlanta is prioritizing long-term health over short-term urgency.

Waldrep had been viewed as a valuable depth option in the starting rotation and possibly the bullpen. His power arsenal and upside made him an intriguing contributor entering 2026. Now, his status remains uncertain, creating additional pressure on the remaining pitching staff.

Braves Rotation Depth Suddenly a Major Question Mark

The timing of these injuries is especially problematic. The Braves are scheduled to open their 2026 regular season in late March with a series against the Kansas City Royals. With less than a month to prepare, Atlanta must quickly evaluate alternative pitching options.

Even before the Waldrep news broke, many Braves fans were urging the front office to pursue another starting pitcher in free agency or via trade. Those calls are now likely to intensify. Depth is critical over a 162-game season, and losing two potential contributors before Opening Day puts the team in a precarious position.

The Braves experienced a similar scenario during the 2025 season when injuries decimated their pitching staff. That year, Atlanta struggled to maintain consistency on the mound, often relying on patchwork solutions and call-ups to fill innings. The cumulative strain ultimately contributed to uneven performance throughout the season.

Lessons from 2025: Injuries and Offensive Regression

Pitching injuries were only part of Atlanta’s struggles in 2025. Several key hitters also experienced noticeable regression at the plate, leading to an offense that failed to meet expectations. When both pitching and hitting falter simultaneously, even the most talented roster can stumble.

The Braves will be hoping that 2026 brings better health and improved offensive production. However, early setbacks in the rotation make that task more complicated. A strong pitching foundation often stabilizes a team during cold stretches at the plate. Without it, pressure mounts quickly on both starters and relievers.

Atlanta’s coaching staff must now focus on maximizing the effectiveness of the healthy arms remaining in camp. Internal options could be elevated into larger roles, and bullpen management may become even more critical in the season’s first few months.

What This Means for the Braves’ 2026 Outlook

Despite the uncertainty, it is not all doom and gloom for the Braves. If Schwellenbach and Waldrep are indeed able to return later in the year, they could provide a midseason boost. Sometimes, pitchers coming back from minor procedures can regain velocity and sharpness after addressing lingering discomfort.

Still, the absence of a defined timeline suggests fans should temper expectations. Early-season wins matter in the competitive National League landscape, and digging out of a slow start can be difficult.

Atlanta’s front office may now explore external reinforcements. Whether that means signing a veteran free agent, pursuing a low-risk depth arm, or accelerating the development of a top prospect remains to be seen. What is clear is that proactive planning will be essential.

Can the Remaining Staff Hold the Line?

For now, the Braves’ remaining pitchers must “hold down the fort,” as the organization navigates these early injuries. The first month of the season could set the tone for the rest of the year.

If Atlanta can tread water until Schwellenbach and Waldrep return, the narrative could shift from crisis to resilience. But if additional injuries occur or performance dips, the team may find itself in a familiar and frustrating position.

As the 2026 campaign approaches, Braves fans will be watching closely for updates. The hope inside the clubhouse is that both young pitchers can recover quickly and contribute before season’s end. Until then, Atlanta faces a critical test of depth, durability, and adaptability right out of the gate.