The Atlanta Braves have performed well throughout the 2026 season despite dealing with a number of injuries. They could be getting help fairly soon, as starting pitcher Hurston Waldrep began his rehab assignment on Monday. Waldrep, who is recovering from an elbow injury, turned in two scoreless innings in his rehab assignment debut. Mark Bowman of MLB.com reported that Waldrep still may not be able to return until late June. 

Nevertheless, he is trending in the right direction. Having Waldrep available for the second half of the 2026 campaign will give Atlanta a fresh arm on the pitching staff.

Waldrep, 24, made his big league debut in 2024. He allowed 13 runs across only two outings that season, though. In 2025, Waldrep made 10 outings (nine starts) and pitched to a strong 2.88 ERA in his 56.1 innings pitched.

Waldrep's impressive performance made it seem like he was poised to play a crucial role in the rotation this season. His elbow injury delayed those plans, but Waldrep could certainly still make an impact this year.

The Braves are playing well right now, but having a fresh arm join the rotation in the middle of the season will be important. Waldrep should be able to give Atlanta quality innings once he makes his return.

For now, it remains to be seen exactly when he will join the big league ball club once again. The late June timeline is the most recent update at the moment.

Updates will continue to be monitored and provided on Hurston Waldrep's injury status as they are made available.

The Braves have been one of the best stories in the game in 2026. In addition to Waldrep, pitchers such as Spencer Strider and Spencer Schwellenbach suffered injuries before the season. Following their difficult 2025 season, the Braves' 2026 outlook was questionable heading into the new campaign.

Yet, they have found ways to win. The available players have stepped up, and Atlanta currently holds the best record in the league with a 40-20 mark. The Braves hold a commanding nine-game lead in the National League East over the second place Washington Nationals as well.

The Braves are not playing on Monday. They will begin a three-game series against the Toronto Blue Jays on Tuesday. First pitch for the first contest of the series between the Blue Jays and Braves is scheduled for 7:15 PM EST on Tuesday night.