The Atlanta Braves are dealing with rotation troubles before the season even starts. Spencer Schwellenbach landed on the 60-day injured list with elbow inflammation, and now Hurston Waldrep might need surgery for loose bodies in his arm.
It’s a frustrating start for a team that saw injuries derail their 2024 season. The Schwellenbach news broke as camp opened, with the team hoping they’re dealing with bone spurs rather than something more serious.
Then came the Waldrep situation. The right-hander felt discomfort after throwing batting practice, and while an MRI showed no ligament damage, he’s getting additional tests to determine if surgery’s needed.
That’s where JR Ritchie comes in.
The former first-round pick has caught Atlanta’s attention this spring. Manager Walt Weiss talked about the balance between necessity and readiness when it comes to calling up prospects.
“It’s a process, right? I mean, sometimes guys are called up out of necessity, and sometimes they knock the door down and you’ve got to call them up. So, the circumstances can be different from one guy to the next. But ideally, when he’s ready, it’s like, ‘Man, we have to call this guy up.’ That’s the ideal situation, right? As opposed to maybe forcing it out of necessity.”
Weiss seems to prefer letting Ritchie develop naturally rather than rushing him due to injuries. The 35th overall pick from 2022 has the talent, but the Braves want to make sure he’s truly ready.
Atlanta’s betting they can piece together their rotation with what they have now. But if another injury hits or someone struggles early, don’t be surprised if Ritchie gets the call.
The Braves can’t afford another injury-plagued season. They’re confident in their depth, but losing two potential starters before Opening Day isn’t exactly the start they were hoping for.
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