The Atlanta Braves are on a mission to bounce back from a challenging 2025 season, where injuries played the role of spoiler. Unfortunately, the injury bug has already bitten in 2026, with Spencer Schwellenbach out of action.
The Braves opened camp with some tough news about their promising young pitcher, Spencer Schwellenbach. He's been placed on the 60-day injured list due to inflammation in his right elbow. The team is crossing their fingers that it's just bone spurs and nothing more serious.
Looking ahead, the Braves have some financial juggling to do, especially when it comes to keeping Ronald Acuña Jr. in the fold. With other core players also needing extensions, managing payroll becomes a high-stakes balancing act. Given the lucrative contracts being handed out in the league, Acuña’s next deal could easily surpass the $300 million mark.
New manager Walt Weiss is already making his presence felt in Spring Training with some strategic decisions. After a game where the regulars were benched, the team responded with a three-run first inning the next day.
Moves like these are setting a new tone for the Braves, who struggled offensively last year. Some suggest that a more proactive approach could make all the difference.
The Braves have their eyes set on a return to the playoffs, and with Weiss at the helm, they're hoping to turn the page and write a new chapter this season.