The Atlanta Braves are navigating some early hurdles in Spring Training, with key challenges impacting their roster. First up, Spencer Schwellenbach, a promising young right-hander, will miss the start of the season.
He’s been placed on the 60-day injured list due to inflammation in his right elbow. The team is hopeful that it’s just bone spurs, steering clear of any more serious issues.
Adding to the Braves' woes, designated hitter Jurickson Profar has been handed a hefty 162-game suspension following a positive test for performance-enhancing drugs. This marks the second consecutive season he’ll be sidelined, and it’s a significant blow considering his $15 million salary will be forfeited. Profar’s absence opens up financial flexibility that could be redirected to strengthen their pitching staff.
One intriguing option on the free-agent market is Lucas Giolito. Though he comes with some risks, given his mixed performance metrics, Giolito could offer a stopgap solution.
His 2025 stats suggest he could slot in as a solid back-end starter, though his projections for 2026 are less encouraging. The Braves will need to weigh the potential reward against the risk, especially since high-stakes gambles aren’t typically GM Alex Anthopoulos’ style.
With pitching being a pressing need, especially if internal options falter, the Braves are keen to bounce back from a lackluster 2025. The decision on whether to pursue Giolito or another option will be a key storyline as the Braves strategize for a successful season. How Anthopoulos handles these challenges could set the tone for Atlanta’s comeback aspirations.