Braves Pitcher Joey Wentz Out for 2026 Season

Wentz to miss entire year after tearing ACL in right knee

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Atlanta Braves announced that left-handed pitcher Joey Wentz will miss the entire 2026 season after tearing the ACL in his right knee. Wentz, who has been with the Braves organization since being drafted in 2018, suffered the injury during a spring training workout.

Why it matters

Wentz was expected to be a key part of the Braves' starting rotation this season as the team looks to defend their World Series title. His absence will force the team to rely more heavily on their bullpen and other young pitchers to fill the void in the starting lineup.

The details

According to the Braves, Wentz sustained the torn ACL during a routine spring training drill on March 5th. He underwent surgery the following week and is expected to miss the entire 2026 season as he recovers and rehabilitates the injury.

  • Wentz suffered the torn ACL on March 5, 2026.
  • Wentz underwent surgery for the injury on March 12, 2026.

The players

Joey Wentz

A left-handed pitcher who has been part of the Atlanta Braves organization since being drafted in 2018.

Atlanta Braves

The professional baseball team based in Atlanta, Georgia that plays in Major League Baseball's National League.

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What’s next

The Braves will need to determine how to fill Wentz's spot in the starting rotation for the 2026 season as the team looks to defend their World Series championship.

The takeaway

Wentz's injury is a significant blow to the Braves' pitching staff, but the team has depth and will need to rely on other young arms to step up in his absence as they aim to repeat as World Series champions.