The Atlanta Braves' pitching rotation is facing a challenging spring, with injuries taking a toll on their roster. Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep have already hit the injured list before Spring Training games even began, and now lefty Joey Wentz has suffered a season-ending ACL tear. With Schwellenbach on the 60-day IL and both pitchers undergoing surgeries, the Braves are left with significant uncertainty in their rotation.
Grant Holmes and Reynaldo Lopez, who both endured injury-plagued 2025 seasons, are expected to provide mid-rotation innings alongside Chris Sale and Spencer Strider. However, with one rotation spot still open, the competition is heating up.
Joey Wentz was a contender for that spot, boasting a decent spring with a 3.18 ERA over 5 2/3 innings. His absence now opens the door for other pitchers to step up.
Bryce Elder seems to be the frontrunner on paper. The right-hander, who made 28 starts last year, was an All-Star in 2023.
However, his performance has dipped, with a 5.63 ERA over his last 52 starts and a strikeout rate of 18.4%. Despite these struggles, Elder's position on the 40-man roster and lack of minor league options make him a strong candidate.
Yet, his 6.48 ERA this spring leaves room for others to seize the opportunity.
Lefty José Suarez, also out of minor league options, is another contender. Despite a rocky big league record, he showed promise with a solid performance in both the minors and majors last winter. His spring showing of four runs in 6 2/3 innings keeps him in the mix.
Veteran southpaw Martín Pérez is a notable non-roster invitee. With only one run allowed in five spring innings, he’s coming off a decent season with the White Sox. Though his All-Star days with the Rangers may be behind him, Pérez could still provide value as a back-end starter.
Carlos Carrasco and Didier Fuentes are also in the conversation. Carrasco's struggles last season and this spring make him a less likely choice, while Fuentes, who impressed with four scoreless innings, might benefit from more seasoning in the minors. Top prospect JR Ritchie has also shown potential with a 3.38 ERA this spring, though he's not yet on the 40-man roster.
The Braves could still look outside the organization for help. Free agent Lucas Giolito remains available, alongside veterans like Tyler Anderson and Patrick Corbin. However, any new addition would likely need time in extended Spring Training, unless a trade brings in someone ready to jump into the rotation immediately.
As the Braves navigate these options, the decision on who will secure the final rotation spot remains a pivotal one. Will they rely on Elder's experience, take a chance on a young prospect, or bring in an external addition? The competition is wide open, and the team’s choice will be crucial as they aim to solidify their pitching staff for the season ahead.