Braves Should Target 3.82 ERA Starter in MLB Free Agency

Atlanta should pivot and target Zack Littell after news of injuries to Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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MLB free agency is winding down, and the Atlanta Braves have already been dealt a few instances of bad news regarding starters on their roster. With Spencer Schwellenbach set to miss an extended period of time with an elbow injury and Hurston Waldrep potentially needing surgery, the Braves should look to add a veteran arm in free agency. One potential target is Zack Littell, who posted a 3.82 ERA last season in 186.2 innings with the Reds and Rays.

Why it matters

The Braves' rotation depth has been tested early, and adding a reliable starter like Littell could help stabilize things as the team prepares for the 2026 season. Littell has made 61 starts over the last two seasons, providing the durability and experience the Braves may need.

The details

Littell is playing out his free agency until the last moment, with his market value estimated at three-years, $38 million according to Spotrac. While trading for a starter is an option, it would likely cost the Braves more in terms of prospects or other assets compared to signing a free agent like Littell.

  • Spencer Schwellenbach will miss an extended period of time with an elbow injury.
  • Hurston Waldrep could miss up to three months if he needs surgery to fix loose bodies in his elbow.

The players

Zack Littell

A free agent starting pitcher who posted a 3.82 ERA in 186.2 innings with the Reds and Rays last season.

Spencer Schwellenbach

A Braves pitcher who will miss an extended period of time with an elbow injury.

Hurston Waldrep

A Braves pitcher who could miss up to three months if he needs surgery to fix loose bodies in his elbow.

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What they’re saying

“Fortunately for them, players like Lucas Giolito, Zack Littell, and Max Scherzer remain available in free agency who could potentially help stabilize things in the team's rotation.”

— Nick Deeds (MLBTradeRumors.com)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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