Just one week into spring training, the Atlanta Braves are already dealing with mounting concerns in their starting rotation. What began as cautious optimism about depth has quickly shifted to uncertainty, as multiple pitchers face health setbacks that could impact the early portion of the season.
The latest concern centers on 23‑year‑old right‑hander Hurston Waldrep. Waldrep impressed early in camp, and expectations were high for the organization’s first‑round pick from the 2023 MLB Draft.
That momentum stalled when he experienced right elbow discomfort late last week following a live batting practice session. An MRI revealed loose bodies in the elbow, though there was no reported ligament damage. The situation escalated quickly according to a Wednesday update from Braves manager Walt Weiss.
“Spencer Schwellenbach underwent surgery to remove loose bodies today. Hurston Waldrep will undergo a similar procedure on Monday. The Braves aren’t providing a timeline. Weiss said he hopes both will be able to pitch again this year,” reported Mark Bowman of MLB.com.
Spencer Schwellenbach underwent surgery to remove loose bodies today. Hurston Waldrep will undergo a similar procedure on Monday. The Braves aren’t providing a timeline. Weiss said he hopes both will be able to pitch again this year
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) February 18, 2026
While right‑hander Spencer Schwellenbach represents the bigger immediate blow after being projected for a prominent rotation role, Waldrep’s setback is significant in its own right. He was expected to compete for starts at some point this season, even if he initially opened the year in Triple‑A due to roster flexibility.
Waldrep posted a 2.88 ERA across 10 appearances last season, collecting 55 strikeouts and flashing the swing‑and‑miss stuff that made him one of Atlanta’s top pitching prospects. There has long been a belief within the organization that he could become an integral piece of the staff in 2026.
Now, instead of building on that progress, he faces a recovery timeline that remains unclear. Although procedures to remove loose bodies are generally less severe than ligament repairs, any elbow surgery for a young pitcher is concerning. The fact that this developed after he had reportedly completed multiple healthy bullpen sessions only adds to the frustration.
The broader significance lies in Atlanta’s rotation depth. Even before these developments, there were lingering health questions surrounding other starters. After just one week of camp, the Braves have now seen two arms require surgical intervention. That puts added pressure on the remaining healthy starters and may intensify the front office’s search for external reinforcements.
For Waldrep, the focus shifts to recovery and regaining momentum to potentially return later this year. For Atlanta, the early spring storyline has become clear. Pitching health, once viewed as manageable, is a pressing concern once again.