The Atlanta Braves face significant concerns in their pitching lineup as Spencer Schwellenbach is sidelined due to injury, with no clear recovery timeline ahead of the 2026 season. This development comes just weeks before Atlanta’s campaign begins against the Kansas City Royals, casting doubt on the team’s readiness in the early stages of the season.
Medical Procedures Affecting Schwellenbach and Waldrep
On Wednesday, the Braves confirmed that both Schwellenbach and fellow pitcher Hurston Waldrep will undergo surgeries to remove loose bodies.
“Spencer Schwellenbach underwent surgery to remove loose bodies today. Hurston Waldrep will undergo a similar procedure on Monday. The Braves aren’t providing a timeline. Weiss said he hopes both will be able to pitch again this year,”
reported Mark Bowman of MLB.com on X, formerly Twitter.
This lack of a clear timetable for their return raises concerns about how long the Braves will be without these pitchers, prompting calls from fans for the team to pursue additional starting pitching options before the season begins.
Pitching Staff Struggles and Team Setbacks from Previous Season
The Braves’ pitching group struggled with injuries throughout the 2025 season, compounding difficulties caused by key hitters performing below expectations. Atlanta will rely heavily on the remaining healthy pitchers to manage the workload while the offense works to regain its previous form in the first half of 2026.
Anticipating the Start of the Season and Team Outlook
Atlanta is scheduled to open its 2026 regular season in late March with a series against the Royals. The uncertainty surrounding Schwellenbach’s and Waldrep’s availability places added pressure on the Braves’ pitching staff and could impact the team’s competitiveness early in the campaign.
Spencer Schwellenbach underwent surgery to remove loose bodies today. Hurston Waldrep will undergo a similar procedure on Monday. The Braves aren’t providing a timeline. Weiss said he hopes both will be able to pitch again this year
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) February 18, 2026
