The Atlanta Braves are navigating some choppy waters with their pitching rotation, a unit that stands tall among the league's elite when fully healthy. However, the team is facing setbacks with injuries to promising arms.
Hurston Waldrep is expected to miss a significant portion of the season after undergoing surgery to remove loose bodies from his arm. This development was confirmed by manager Walt Weiss, who noted that while an MRI showed no ligament damage, further tests are on the horizon to get a complete picture.
Before Waldrep's situation emerged, the Braves were already dealing with the absence of Spencer Schwellenbach. The young right-hander, who was poised for a breakthrough year, has been sidelined with right elbow inflammation. The hope is that it's just bone spurs, but the team is keeping a close eye on his recovery.
Given these challenges, the Braves are likely on the lookout for veteran pitchers who might become available. Names like Walker Buehler, Austin Gomber, Marco Gonzales, and Cal Quantrill are on minor-league contracts with opt-out clauses at the end of spring training. If they don’t secure a spot on their current big-league rosters, they could become viable options for Atlanta, potentially at a bargain price.
The Braves' need for a reliable addition to their rotation is becoming more pressing. While Walker Buehler had a tough season last year, his World Series experience could make him a valuable and affordable asset for the team.
General manager Alex Anthopoulos seems to be taking a measured approach, balancing patience with the need to act. The Braves' lineup remains strong, but with injuries mounting, reinforcing the rotation will be crucial for maintaining their competitive edge.