Spencer Schwellenbach comments on the injury.
Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Spencer Schwellenbach was recently dealt an unfortunate injury blow, as it was revealed that he is dealing with right elbow inflammation. On Wednesday while speaking to reporters, the right-handed hurler said he may need to undergo a procedure to have bone spurs removed, via Mark Bowman of MLB.com.
Schwellenbach said he was initially just getting ready for 2026 spring training and was feeling good. He then said he felt "something wrong" in his elbow around two weeks ago.
"The bone spurs are causing an issue in the back of my arm," Schwellenbach said, before adding that a procedure may need to occur but there is currently no set timeline for it to happen.
"Yeah, most likely," Schwellenbach responded when asked if some type of surgery would indeed be needed.
Brutal Blow for Spencer Schwellenbach, Braves
Schwellenbach, a 25-year-old, pitched in 21 games in 2024 and 17 contests in 2025. He dealt with an injury last season, but overall the pitcher has been tremendous while on the mound. Between his 38 total outings, Schwellenbach has recorded a stellar 3.23 ERA to go along with 235 total strikeouts.
Schwellenbach seemed poised to have a breakout season in 2026. At 25 years old, he is only now just entering his prime. His stuff plays at the big league level and there is no question that he's already displayed the potential to find success. Now dealing with the elbow injury, though, it remains to be seen when he will pitch next.
The Braves were set to enter the '26 campaign with Chris Sale, Spencer Strider and Schwellenbach leading the way in the starting rotation. That would have given them one of the better pitching trios in baseball. Additionally, veteran Reynaldo Lopez is in the rotation as well.
Now, it appears Lopez will be the No. 3 starter with two spots up for grabs in the back of the rotation. Hurston Waldrep will likely earn one of the spots. One has to wonder if the Braves may even consider bringing in one of the remaining free agency starting pitchers -- Zac Gallen, Lucas Giolito and Chris Bassitt are among the pitchers still unsigned at the moment.
With all of that being said, losing Spencer Schwellenbach due to the injury is far from ideal. The Braves will continue to provide updates on his injury status as they are made available.