The Atlanta Braves are confronting a significant challenge before the new season begins, as Spencer Schwellenbach has been sidelined due to injury. This development adds to a string of setbacks for the team, which struggled last year partly because of unforeseen injuries. Schwellenbach has been placed on the 60-day injured list with inflammation in his pitching elbow, and he may require arthroscopic surgery to remove bone spurs, with an uncertain recovery timeline.
Calls Grow to Strengthen the Pitching Rotation with Chris Bassitt
In light of Schwellenbach’s absence, there is growing discussion among analysts and fans about reinforced pitching options. Stephen Tolbert from the Hammer Territory Podcast has urged the Braves to acquire Chris Bassitt to add necessary depth and stability to the roster. Tolbert stated,
“The Braves need to add more stability to the roster by adding more depth to it,”
and continued,
“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.”
These views highlight the urgency felt around Atlanta’s pitching prospects given Schwellenbach’s uncertain return.
Pitching Coach Connections May Influence Bassitt Signing
Adding to the speculation on a Bassitt signing, ESPN’s Buster Olney pointed out a key connection that could sway the Braves’ decision. Atlanta’s new pitching coach, Jeremy Hefner, previously worked with Bassitt during their time with the New York Mets. Olney noted,
“As Braves assess impact of Schwellenbach’s injury, worth noting that new ATL pitching coach Jeremy Hefner worked with unsigned FA Chris Bassitt when both were with the Mets. Bassitt has a reputation for being great in the clubhouse.”
This existing relationship could become a factor as the Braves consider offering Bassitt a competitive contract amid other teams vying for his services.
Uncertain Outlook for Schwellenbach and Braves’ Next Steps
With Schwellenbach’s injury timeline unclear and the possibility of surgery ahead, the Braves face pressure to act quickly to prevent another struggle-filled season. While other clubs will be interested in Chris Bassitt, Atlanta could attempt to attract him by offering a more compelling financial package. Strengthening the pitching staff seems critical given the early blow to their rotation and the team’s past struggles.
The upcoming weeks will reveal if the Braves respond decisively to these setbacks and whether Bassitt joins the team to help stabilize their pitching depth this season.
"Go sign Chris Bassitt."@b_outliers believes the Braves should have addressed the rotation depth in the offseason. pic.twitter.com/wcGTWitZIl
— Hammer Territory Podcast (@HammerTerritory) February 11, 2026
As Braves assess impact of Schwellenbach's injury, worth noting that new ATL pitching coach Jeremy Hefner worked with unsigned FA Chris Bassitt when both were with the Mets. Bassitt has a reputation for being great in the clubhouse.
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) February 11, 2026
