Braves predicted to trade for $131M 2-time All-Star, Gold Glove winner to salvage depleted rotation originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Atlanta Braves are in need of a reliable starting pitcher after two members of their rotation were ruled out for significant time. The first blow came when news broke about Spencer Schwellenbach on the day pitchers and catchers reported to Spring Training.

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“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.

Just over the weekend, Atlanta’s rotation took another hit when it was announced that young right-hander Hurston Waldrep would also miss time with a similar issue.

“The Atlanta Braves’ rotation took another hit Sunday when manager Walt Weiss said right-hander Hurston Waldrep may need surgery to remove “loose bodies” found in his arm. Waldrep complained of discomfort after throwing batting practice. Weiss said an MRI showed no ligament damage, but the team is waiting to learn more after Waldrep has additional tests,” ESPN wrote.

With injuries already stacking up, the Braves may need to explore the trade market. HTHB’s Tremayne Person believes Atlanta could pursue a deal for José Berríos of the Toronto Blue Jays.

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“Berríos is the cleanest definition of a front office trade: you’re buying innings and competence, not dreaming on upside. His 2025 line (9–5, 4.17 ERA, 166 IP) isn’t flashy, but it’s the kind of volume that keeps your staff from unraveling,” Person wrote. “The catch is obvious: the contract. Berríos is owed serious money, and his deal structure matters in any negotiation.”

The financial commitment would certainly be a factor, but the Braves are facing a familiar problem. Last season, their rotation was also decimated by injuries, and the early signs suggest history could be repeating itself.

Atlanta may have felt comfortable with its pitching depth entering the offseason, but the recent setbacks are a reminder that no team can afford to stand pat. General manager Alex Anthopoulos now faces pressure to find another reliable arm — and quickly.

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