Atlanta Braves pitcher Spencer Schwellenbach has been moved to the 60-day injured list due to inflammation in his pitching elbow, sidelining him for a significant part of the 2025 MLB season. This setback comes during a crucial period as teams prepare for the upcoming regular season, with Schwellenbach’s status raising concerns about the Braves’ rotation depth and fantasy baseball strategies.
First-year Atlanta manager Walt Weiss expressed cautious optimism, noting that the injury likely does not involve Schwellenbach’s ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), which would otherwise require Tommy John surgery. Schwellenbach had struggled with the same elbow last year but seemed to recover. Weiss remarked that avoiding a serious UCL injury would be a positive development.
Since debuting in 2024, Schwellenbach has been a strong presence on the mound, recording a 15-11 win-loss record with a 3.23 earned run average (ERA) over 234 1/3 innings pitched. His 235 strikeouts highlight his effectiveness as one of the Braves’ most reliable starters.
His absence leaves Atlanta relying on pitchers like Chris Sale, Spencer Strider, Reynaldo Lopez, Grant Holmes, and Bryce Elder, with prospects AJ Smith-Shawver and Joey Wentz expected to contribute later in the season. Schwellenbach had been a significant component of Atlanta’s pitching strategy, so his injury represents a considerable loss to both the team and fantasy baseball owners.
Schwellenbach’s status will affect his Average Draft Position (ADP), where he had been picked around 82nd overall as the 83rd player. The injury news is expected to lower his draft appeal in standard leagues, pending further information as the season draws near.
Mets’ Francisco Lindor Faces Possible Surgery but Remains Optimistic for Season Start
New York Mets star shortstop Francisco Lindor is managing a stress reaction in the left hamate bone, with surgery a potential option depending on how the injury progresses. David Stearns, Mets’ president of operations, conveyed confidence that Lindor could still be ready for Opening Day even if surgery becomes necessary.
Lindor enjoyed a highly productive 2024, appearing in 160 games and achieving a .267 batting average paired with a .346 on-base percentage. He gathered 172 hits, including 35 doubles and 31 home runs, and contributed 86 RBIs and 117 runs. His combination of speed and power was demonstrated by his 31 stolen bases and 65 walks.
Should Lindor miss any playing time, the Mets would adjust their infield alignments, likely moving Bo Bichette to shortstop temporarily. Bichette, Brett Baty, and Mark Vientos would share responsibilities in the infield, particularly at third base, contingent on the team’s health.
Lindor’s ADP, previously around the 23rd pick and ranking 19th overall among players, may dip slightly following this injury update. However, it is anticipated that Lindor will overcome the setback and deliver strong performance once fully healthy, despite the possibility of a slower start if spring training time is limited.
Additional MLB Players on Extended Injured Lists
A number of other players across the league have been placed on 60-day injured lists, signaling substantial recovery periods ahead. Boston Red Sox pitcher Tanner Houck continues his comeback from Tommy John surgery, while Arizona’s Andrew Saalfrank remains sidelined due to shoulder surgery.
Colorado Rockies’ Kris Bryant faces ongoing challenges with lumbar degenerative disc disease, indicating another potentially injury-shortened season. New York Mets pitcher Reed Garrett is also recovering from Tommy John surgery and will miss the bulk of the season.
San Francisco Giants’ Randy Rodriguez joins the list of Tommy John surgery recoveries, sidelining him for significant time. Meanwhile, Washington Nationals’ Trevor Williams will be absent for an extended period due to a partial tear in his throwing arm’s UCL.
None of these players currently hold notable places on fantasy baseball ADP rankings, reflecting limited expectations for their immediate impact. Nonetheless, keeping track of their rehabilitation progress remains important for roster and draft considerations.
Tracking the Latest Developments in MLB Injury Updates 2025
As the 2025 season approaches, MLB injury updates continue to be a critical focus for teams, fantasy baseball owners, and fans. Injuries such as Schwellenbach’s elbow inflammation and Lindor’s hamate bone issue could directly influence team strategies and player valuations.
The Braves must address the gap in their starting rotation while hoping Schwellenbach avoids surgery and returns sooner than expected. Meanwhile, the Mets’ depth and flexibility in the infield may be tested if Lindor experiences missed time. Other players recovering from surgeries underscore the physical toll of the sport and the uncertainty teams face heading into the season.
Staying informed about these developments is vital, particularly for those involved in fantasy baseball, as player availability fluctuates and draft decisions must adapt accordingly. Continued updates will shed more light on recovery timelines and roster adjustments as Opening Day nears.
