The Atlanta Braves are entering the new season with a spotlight firmly on their starting rotation. With Alex Anthopoulos at the helm, questions are swirling about whether the team has enough depth on the mound. The offseason saw Anthopoulos stay relatively quiet, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering if the Braves' internal options can truly carry the load.
The Braves' rotation has its share of question marks. Chris Bassitt, a sought-after arm, signed with the Orioles, leaving some fans frustrated. The desire for a proven pitcher like Bassitt is understandable, especially given the risks tied to the current rotation setup.
Injuries have already impacted the Braves’ plans. Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep are both undergoing surgeries, leaving their return dates uncertain. This situation underscores the fragile nature of the Braves' pitching depth.
Chris Sale, Spencer Strider, Grant Holmes, and Reynaldo López all spent significant time on the injured list last season. As the Braves gear up for 2026, confidence varies among fans. Even the most hopeful supporters might feel uneasy about relying on these arms to endure a full 162-game season without setbacks.
Injuries are part and parcel of baseball, but Atlanta seems particularly vulnerable. With Waldrep's recent surgery, the pressure on Lucas Giolito and others is mounting. The Braves find themselves in a precarious position, especially for a team with postseason dreams.
Anthopoulos has been known to make bold moves early in the offseason, but the pitching market proved challenging this time around. The lack of new acquisitions has left the Braves with limited options to bolster their rotation. Now, every update on the health and performance of their top four starters is being watched with keen interest.
The Braves are walking a fine line. Without bringing in additional pitching reinforcements, they're banking heavily on their current roster's health and depth.
For a team with high expectations, this strategy could either highlight Anthopoulos' savvy restraint or reveal a significant oversight. The upcoming season will be a telling one for the Braves' front office decisions.