Braves Face Injury Challenges Ahead of 2027 Season

The Atlanta Braves are grappling with severe pitching injuries as they approach the 2027 season. Manager Walt Weiss announced that Hurston Waldrep, the team's 2023 first-round pick, will undergo Tommy John surgery, which is expected to sideline him for the entire season.

Waldrep had already been on the injured list this season due to previous elbow surgery. Additionally, Spencer Schwellenbach will have surgery to repair an elbow fracture he sustained in 2025. The Braves have faced a multitude of pitching injuries this year, affecting several starters including AJ Smith-Shawver and Spencer Strider.

Despite these challenges, veteran pitcher Chris Sale has performed well, helping the Braves maintain a competitive position in the NL East. The team will need to prioritize acquiring starting pitching during the offseason, especially with uncertainties surrounding the upcoming MLB season.