The Atlanta Braves received news they had hoped to avoid after an injury-plagued 2025 season. Unfortunately, the injury bug has already sprung its ugly head in 2026. Spencer Schwellenbach suffered a fractured elbow that ended his impressive 2025 campaign.
There was no timetable for him to return this season, but Atlanta expected him to at some point. However, that won't happen now as Schwellenbach was placed on the 60-day IL with right elbow inflammation.
He isn't expected to need surgery (although it is still in the cards), but the Braves will be without Schwellenbach until at least May. That also depends on whether things go well with this recovery process, and whether or not the current plans change and he does go under the knife.
But this just highlights what most fans have thought this offseason. Atlanta has needed to add another starting pitcher because of the potential to lose an arm to injury. Schwellenbach's setback may be forcing their hand.
Braves almost have to go out and sign Chris Bassitt now
Atlanta could explore a trade and see if they could find value somewhere. However, the free agent market still has options available to help them. Chris Bassitt feels destined to land with the Braves. He's a veteran with plenty of experience and would provide the Braves with a decent amount of innings.
Bassitt has tossed at least 170 innings and made 30+ starts over the last two seasons. His effectiveness has decreased a bit, but his 3.96 ERA in 2025 was still respectable. Over 32 starts last year, he issued 52 walks and struck out 166 batters.
Opposing teams didn't hit him very hard as his average exit velocity was 87.7 mph. That is due to his ability to induce ground balls with an impressive 46.1% rate last season. Bassitt's hard-hit rate was in the 80th percentile at 36.6%.
Bassitt's ability to limit walks and start at least 30 games a season would be a welcome sight for the Braves. It makes perfect sense, and Atlanta could likely land him on a short-term deal. It's not the flashiest signing in the world, but he would fill an immediate need with a veteran presence.