The Atlanta Braves are looking to right the wrongs of the 2025 season. Injuries were the biggest problem last year, preventing the team from finding a rhythm — and the same issue has already surfaced in 2026 with Spencer Schwellenbach sidelined.
“The Braves opened camp this morning with an unwelcome update on talented young righty Spencer Schwellenbach. He’s been placed on the 60-day injured list due to inflammation in his right elbow, per Mark Bowman of MLB.com. The team’s hope is that the 25-year-old is dealing with bone spurs and not something more nefarious,” MLB Trade Rumors’ Steve Adams wrote.
The Braves also face future challenges when it comes to Ronald Acuña Jr., particularly regarding how to manage payroll.
“The Braves must also account for future extensions for other core players, making payroll allocation a delicate exercise. Retaining Acuña long term is a priority, but accomplishing it will not be easy. Bellinger pulled in $162 million despite his up-and-down career thus far. Signing Acuña will almost certainly require more, both in total dollars and years,” HTHB’s Chase Owens wrote. “With each big-money contract we see like Bellinger or Kyle Tucker or Bo Bichette, it feels increasingly likely that Ronald would have no trouble finding a deal worth at least $300 million if not significantly more.”
New manager Walt Weiss is already setting the tone for the team, making subtle but impactful moves in Spring Training.
“A three-run first the day after benching the regulars. Walt is a genius,” Braves reporter Mark Bowman wrote.
This type of decision from Weiss has set a tone not just for the preseason, but for the regular season as well. Atlanta struggled offensively last year, and some believe former manager Brian Snitker’s laid-back approach may have been part of the problem.
The Braves are aiming for a big season, and moves like these will be critical for Weiss. Atlanta is determined to return to the playoffs after missing them for the first time in a long while.
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