The Atlanta Braves got some tough news on Tuesday, as promising young right-hander Spencer Schwellenback is headed to the 60-day injured list with elbow inflammation. That’s a significant blow for a team looking to rebound after a disappointing 2025 season, and it likely means Schwellenback will miss the entire first half of the upcoming campaign.
It’s the kind of setback that stings a little more given how much went wrong for Atlanta last year. After a run of consistent postseason appearances dating back to 2018, the Braves missed the playoffs entirely in 2025 - their first absence since 2017. A mix of injuries and across-the-board regression made it a season the organization would rather forget.
Now, with spring training around the corner and the 2026 season fast approaching, Schwellenback’s absence adds another question mark to a pitching staff that’s already had its share of health concerns. The young righty was expected to be a key piece in the rotation mix, and while he’s still very much a part of the Braves’ long-term plans, his setback puts added pressure on the rest of the staff to step up early.
There’s been plenty of chatter among fans about whether the Braves should pursue another starting-caliber arm before Opening Day. That conversation will only grow louder now. Atlanta’s rotation depth will be tested - and tested early - with one of their most talented arms sidelined until at least midseason, and possibly beyond.
But it’s not all gloom in Braves Country. New manager Walt Weiss, who steps in after years as a key member of the coaching staff, had a notably upbeat tone when discussing the roster heading into camp.
“Our position player depth is as good as I've seen since I've been here,” Weiss said, via Gabe Burns of the AJC.
That’s a strong vote of confidence from a guy who’s seen this team operate at a high level. And it’s not just lip service - the Braves still boast one of the most complete lineups in the National League, with a core group of hitters that, when healthy and producing, can go toe-to-toe with anyone.
The question heading into 2026 is whether that offensive firepower can carry the load while the pitching staff finds its footing. The Braves will need bounce-back performances across the board, and they’ll need their depth - both in the lineup and on the mound - to show up in a big way.
Opening Day is still weeks away, and there’s time for reinforcements or internal options to emerge. But one thing’s clear: the road back to October just got a little tougher without Schwellenback in the mix to start the year.
