Braves' rotation takes a huge hit after injury update on Hurston Waldrep

The young pitcher will likely need a procedure to address "loose bodies" in his right elbow.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Atlanta Braves received bad news as top pitching prospect Hurston Waldrep suffered an injury to his right elbow during live batting practice. An MRI revealed "loose bodies" in the elbow, and Waldrep will likely need a procedure to address the issue, dealing a major blow to the Braves' rotation depth just before spring training games begin.

Why it matters

The Braves were hoping Waldrep would be a key part of their starting rotation this season after an impressive 2025 campaign. His injury leaves the team relying more heavily on their veteran starters like Chris Sale and Spencer Strider, as well as other young arms like Reynaldo Lopez and Grant Holmes.

The details

Waldrep, 23, had a breakout 2025 season, going 6-1 with a 2.88 ERA and 55 strikeouts in 56 innings pitched. However, the MRI revealed "loose bodies" in his right elbow, an issue that will likely require a procedure to address. The good news is that the MRI did not show any ligament damage.

  • On Sunday, an MRI revealed the injury to Hurston Waldrep's right elbow.
  • Waldrep experienced discomfort in his arm while pitching during live batting practice.

The players

Hurston Waldrep

A 23-year-old pitching prospect for the Atlanta Braves who had a breakout 2025 season but now faces an injury setback.

Chris Sale

A veteran starting pitcher for the Atlanta Braves who will be relied upon more heavily with Waldrep's injury.

Spencer Strider

Another veteran starting pitcher for the Atlanta Braves who will need to step up with Waldrep's injury.

Reynaldo Lopez

A young starting pitcher for the Atlanta Braves who will have an opportunity to contribute more with Waldrep's injury.

Grant Holmes

A young starting pitcher for the Atlanta Braves who will have an opportunity to contribute more with Waldrep's injury.

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What’s next

The Braves will monitor Waldrep's recovery and determine a timeline for his return, while relying more heavily on their veteran starters and other young arms to fill the void in the rotation.

The takeaway

Waldrep's injury is a major setback for the Braves, who were counting on him to be a key part of their starting rotation this season. The team will need their veteran starters and other young pitchers to step up in his absence, as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 campaign.