Braves $7M promising duo reportedly out for the season after undergoing season-ending surgeries

The Atlanta Braves have been hit hard by injuries this season, but they had hoped to manage them better after the tumultuous 2025 season. Unfortunately, the team's optimism has been dashed as two promising young pitchers will undergo season-ending surgeries. Starter Spencer Schwellenbach and reliever Hurston Waldrep, who were both valued at $7 million, have both been placed on the 60-day injured list due to elbow issues.

Schwellenbach, a 25-year-old righty, is set to undergo elbow surgery to repair the same fracture he suffered last year, while Waldrep, a 24-year-old hurler, will undergo Tommy John surgery to remove loose bodies around his right elbow. Both players will do everything they can to return next season, but their recoveries could take significant time.

The Braves' rotation concerns have grown since Waldrep was forced to exit a start with Triple-A Gwinnett due to right arm discomfort. Managers remain hopeful, but the recovery timelines for both pitchers could extend into the 2027 season.