Braves Rotation Suffers Another Blow: Waldrep Needs More Arm Tests

Rookie pitcher Hurston Waldrep could require additional evaluation after injury setback

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Atlanta Braves' starting rotation suffered another blow on Sunday, as manager Walt Weiss announced that rookie right-hander Hurston Waldrep may need further testing and evaluation on his pitching arm after experiencing an injury setback during spring training.

Why it matters

The Braves were already facing questions about their starting rotation depth after several key injuries last season. Waldrep was expected to compete for a rotation spot, so his potential absence would be a significant loss for the defending NL East champions.

The details

Weiss said Waldrep felt discomfort in his arm during a recent bullpen session, prompting the team to shut him down temporarily. The 23-year-old prospect will undergo additional medical tests to determine the extent of the issue and whether he'll be ready for the start of the regular season.

  • Waldrep experienced arm discomfort during a bullpen session on February 12, 2026.
  • Braves manager Walt Weiss announced the injury setback on February 15, 2026.

The players

Walt Weiss

The manager of the Atlanta Braves.

Hurston Waldrep

A 23-year-old right-handed pitching prospect in the Braves' organization who was expected to compete for a spot in the starting rotation.

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What’s next

The Braves will wait for the results of Waldrep's medical tests before determining the next steps in his recovery and whether he'll be ready for the start of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Braves' starting rotation depth continues to be a concern, as they now face the possibility of losing a promising young pitcher in Waldrep just as he was poised to compete for a spot in the big-league rotation.