Braves Pitchers Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep to Undergo Elbow Surgery

Two pitchers from the Atlanta Braves, Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep, are set to undergo elbow surgeries, further challenging the team's rotation. Schwellenbach will have surgery for an elbow fracture that has troubled him since last year, while Waldrep will undergo Tommy John surgery.

Schwellenbach, who debuted in the majors a couple of years ago, has recorded impressive statistics over the 2024 and 2025 seasons, including a 3.23 earned run average. However, he has not played since June of last year due to his injury and was placed on the 60-day injured list at the start of the 2026 season. Despite some attempts to throw bullpens this summer, he has not progressed to a rehab assignment.

Waldrep had a promising start in the majors last year with a 2.88 ERA but has faced setbacks due to elbow soreness. Although he returned briefly in June, he is now expected to miss the rest of this season and all of 2027. The Braves currently hold a strong position in the standings with a 79-55 record, aiming for a playoff berth despite these injuries.