The Atlanta Braves are gearing up for the 2026 MLB season, set to kick off in less than two weeks. However, they've hit a few bumps on the road to opening day. Spencer Schwellenbach, a key starter, will miss the early part of the season due to injury, which is a tough blow for the team.
In the latest roster moves, the Braves announced that infielder Aaron Schunk and outfielder Brewer Hicklen have been reassigned to minor league camp. This leaves Atlanta with 43 active players still in spring training. Hicklen, who has been bouncing between major and minor leagues since his debut in 2022, and Schunk, an Atlanta native who debuted with the Rockies in 2024, will be looking to make their mark from the minors.
The Braves are also dealing with the absence of designated hitter Jurickson Profar, who is suspended for the season after a second violation of the league's banned substance policy. This means the team will have to rely heavily on their depth and hope for no further injuries as the season looms.
Atlanta is counting on strong comebacks from players like Austin Riley and Ozzie Albies, who had a dip in performance last year. Having a healthy Ronald Acuna Jr. back in the lineup should provide a significant boost as well.
The Braves are set to open their 2026 season at home against the Kansas City Royals on March 26. With the season fast approaching, they'll be looking to hit the ground running despite the early setbacks.