Braves Rotation Suffers Another Massive Blow

Hurston Waldrep to miss significant time after MRI reveals loose bodies in his elbow

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Atlanta Braves' pitching rotation has suffered another devastating blow, as second-year pitcher Hurston Waldrep is set to miss significant time after an MRI revealed loose bodies in his elbow. Waldrep will meet with doctors in the coming days to determine the next steps, but there's a chance he may not return until the 2027 season.

Why it matters

The Braves' pitching depth was already a concern coming into the season, and now they will be without two of their best arms for at least the first half of the 2026 season. This puts even more pressure on the remaining starters and could force the team to look for outside help to shore up the rotation.

The details

Braves manager Walt Weiss announced the news about Waldrep's injury after he experienced some pain following a live batting practice session. The MRI revealed the loose bodies in his elbow, and Waldrep will now meet with doctors to decide on the next course of action, which could involve a procedure to clean things up. This comes on the heels of the Braves already being without Spencer Schwellenbach, who is also expected to miss the 2026 season.

  • On February 15, 2026, the Braves announced Hurston Waldrep's injury.
  • Waldrep will meet with doctors in the next couple of days to determine next steps.

The players

Hurston Waldrep

A second-year pitcher for the Atlanta Braves who is now set to miss significant time due to an elbow injury.

Walt Weiss

The manager of the Atlanta Braves who announced Waldrep's injury.

Spencer Schwellenbach

Another Braves pitcher who is also expected to miss the 2026 season.

Alex Anthopoulos

The general manager of the Atlanta Braves who said the team has been trying to add a 'playoff starter' all offseason.

Bryce Elder

A Braves pitcher who becomes a frontrunner for a rotation spot with Waldrep's injury.

Martin Perez

A Braves pitcher who becomes a frontrunner for a rotation spot with Waldrep's injury.

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What they’re saying

“BREAKING: After Hurston Waldrep threw live BP the other day he had some pain. MRI revealed loose bodies in his elbow. It's likely he will need some type of a procedure to clean things up. Waldrep is meeting with doctors in the next couple days to decide next steps.”

— Alison Mastrangelo, Reporter (Twitter)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.