Braves LHP Joey Wentz to miss 2026 season after tearing ACL in right knee

Atlanta Braves pitcher suffers season-ending injury while covering first base against Tampa Bay Rays

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Atlanta Braves left-handed pitcher Joey Wentz will miss the entire 2026 season after tearing the ACL in his right knee while covering first base against the Tampa Bay Rays on Sunday. The 28-year-old Wentz was expected to compete for a spot in the Braves' starting rotation this year, but the injury is the latest setback for an Atlanta pitching staff that has already seen two other starters placed on the injured list.

Why it matters

Wentz's injury is a significant blow to the Braves' pitching depth, as the team was already dealing with injuries to other key starters. The loss of Wentz for the season could put more pressure on the remaining healthy pitchers to step up and fill the void in the rotation.

The details

Wentz was pitching in relief in the fifth inning against the Rays when Tampa Bay's Taylor Walls bunted. Wentz went to cover first base, stepped awkwardly on the bag, and collided with Walls, resulting in the ACL tear. The Braves had initially hoped Wentz had avoided serious injury, but further testing revealed the ligament tear that will sideline him for the entire 2026 season.

  • Wentz suffered the injury on Sunday, March 9, 2026 while playing against the Tampa Bay Rays.
  • The Braves announced Wentz's season-ending injury on Monday, March 10, 2026.

The players

Joey Wentz

A 28-year-old left-handed pitcher for the Atlanta Braves who was expected to compete for a spot in the team's starting rotation this season.

Taylor Walls

A player for the Tampa Bay Rays who was involved in the play that resulted in Wentz's injury.

Spencer Schwellenbach

An Atlanta Braves pitcher who was placed on the 60-day injured list this spring after undergoing elbow surgery.

Hurston Waldrep

An Atlanta Braves pitcher who was placed on the 60-day injured list this spring after undergoing elbow surgery.

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What’s next

The Braves will need to find a replacement for Wentz in their starting rotation, likely turning to younger pitchers or looking to the free agent market to fill the void.

The takeaway

Wentz's season-ending injury is a significant setback for the Braves, who were already dealing with injuries to other key members of their pitching staff. The team will need to rely on its depth and find creative solutions to overcome the loss of Wentz for the 2026 season.