The Atlanta Braves are confronting a rotation dilemma ahead of their series with the Baltimore Orioles after Spencer Schwellenbach suffered a right elbow fracture and was placed on the injured list Wednesday. With Spencer Strider scheduled to pitch Friday and Grant Holmes expected Sunday, the question of who will start Saturday remains unresolved, raising concerns about Schwellenbach injury impacts on Braves rotation.

Manager Snitker Describes Saturday Starter as Unsettled

Braves manager Brian Snitker referred to the uncertainty around Saturday’s starter as an

up in the air type deal.

The team is currently exploring various strategies, including the possibility of deploying a bullpen day to cover innings. Snitker emphasized that the decision will largely depend on how well the starters perform in the preceding games on Thursday and Friday.

Evaluating Bullpen Strength and Rest Opportunities

With an off day scheduled for Monday, the bullpen will have a chance to recuperate, which could influence how the Braves manage their pitchers in the coming series. Should the team opt for a bullpen day on Saturday, Holmes would likely be asked to pitch multiple innings to help set up the finale on Sunday before the Braves fly out to Sacramento on Tuesday.

The Braves possess several dependable bullpen arms to manage the late innings, including Dylan Lee, Daysbel Hernández, and Raisel Iglesias, who have all demonstrated poise under pressure. Additional help could come from Dylan Dodd, Rafael Montero, and Austin Cox, each capable of pitching multiple innings; Cox and Montero have recorded two-inning outings this season, while Dodd has shown similar endurance in Triple-A Gwinnett earlier this year.

Prospect Hurston Waldrep as a Potential Rotation Call-Up

As the Braves consider options to offset Schwellenbach’s absence, No. 2 prospect Hurston Waldrep looms as a candidate for a call-up. Waldrep’s pitching schedule aligns closely with Schwellenbach’s, having last pitched the day after Schwellenbach. By Saturday, he would be on regular rest and ready to contribute if the team requires his services.

Rotation Decisions to Shape Braves’ Outlook in Important Series

The Braves now face a critical window to finalize their approach to the starting rotation for this key matchup against Baltimore, with the injury to Schwellenbach complicating plans. How the team adapts will test their pitching depth and resilience as they aim to maintain competitive momentum in the season.