"It started right before the All-Star break when ace pitcher Chris Sale was transferred from the 15-day IL list to the 60-day list due to a fractured rib cage. This was also around the same week that Spencer Schwellenbach also landed on the IL because of a fractured right elbow. Not to mention Grant Holmes' exit due to an elbow injury, which he opted to forego surgery and opt for rehab instead."
"Those were the top three starters of the season who showed steady performances on the mound and gained the trust and high expectations for fans to look forward to. Prior to Sale's news, at the beginning of June, AJ Smith-Shawver was placed on the IL and missed the remainder of the season as well. Bryce Elder had to step up, and surely, yet inconcistently improved during the remainder of the season."
The Braves began the season 0-7 while the pitching rotation initially served as a relative strength during offensive struggles. Multiple starters suffered significant injuries: Chris Sale moved from the 15-day to the 60-day IL with a fractured rib cage; Spencer Schwellenbach landed on the IL with a fractured right elbow; Grant Holmes exited with an elbow injury and chose rehab over surgery; AJ Smith-Shawver missed the remainder of the season after an early June IL placement. Bryce Elder and Spencer Strider produced inconsistent results. The team called up Hurston Waldrep, who proved worthy of a roster spot for the following season. Manager Alex Anthopoulos announced plans affecting the rotation and bullpen.
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