No products in the cart.
Atlanta Braves Fantasy Baseball News
Bryce Elder Set to Miss 3-4 Weeks After Having Knee Scope
Atlanta Braves manager Walt Weiss said that right-hander Bryce Elder (knee) underwent knee surgery on Tuesday and will miss three to four weeks as a result of the procedure, per Mark Bowman of MLB.com. While Elder has a chance to return to the postseason, his regular season is likely over. Across 149 innings (26 starts) before the injury, Elder recorded an 8-8 record with a 4.11 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, and 121 strikeouts. The 27-year-old's fantasy upside is limited by his subpar 19.1% strikeout rate. However, Elder proved himself to be a capable starting pitcher streamer at different points in 2026, especially while pitching in front of the potent Braves lineup. With Elder sidelined, Braves right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver's place in the team's rotation is likely safe down the stretch of the season.
Sep 8 · Source via
Atlanta Braves Bryce ElderReynaldo Lopez to Return to the Rotation on Wednesday
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's Chad Bishop reports that Atlanta Braves right-hander Reynaldo Lopez (knee) will come off the 15-day injured list to start Wednesday's game against the Tampa Bay Rays. It will be Lopez's first start with Atlanta since July 27. He was placed on the IL on Aug. 2 with inflammation in his left knee. The veteran hurler looked good in his final minor-league rehab start with Triple-A Gwinnett last Thursday, throwing 93 pitches in five shutout innings while striking out six for the Stripers. With Lopez returning, it will push the struggling Bryce Elder to a relief role while he battles knee issues of his own. Lopez, a 32-year-old Dominican hurler, will be returning to a 4-3 record this year with a 3.64 ERA (4.32 FIP) and 1.34 WHIP with 66 strikeouts and 29 walks in 71 2/3 innings pitched across 24 outings (11 starts). He threw 5 2/3 shutout frames for a no-decision in his final start on July 26 against the Baltimore Orioles before landing on the IL, but he surrendered a combined nine earned runs in 9 1/3 innings in his previous two starts before that against the St. Louis Cardinals and San Diego Padres.
Sep 7 · Source via Atlanta Braves Reynaldo LopezReynaldo Lopez to Return to the Rotation Next Week
Atlanta Braves right-hander Reynaldo Lopez (knee) will be activated from the 15-day injured list to rejoin the team's starting rotation at some point next week, according to Jesus Cano of The Athletic. Lopez's first start back off the IL could line up to come next Wednesday against the first-place Tampa Bay Rays, which would not be ideal for fantasy streaming purposes. The 32-year-old veteran has been sidelined with inflammation in his left knee since the end of July, but he is ready to rejoin the big-league roster after throwing 93 pitches in five scoreless innings for Triple-A Gwinnett in a minor-league rehab start on Thursday. The Dominican hurler will be making just his 12th start this year for the Braves next week and will be returning to a 4-3 record, 3.64 ERA (4.32 FIP), and 1.34 WHIP with 66 strikeouts and 29 walks in 71 2/3 innings over his 24 appearances. Since rejoining Atlanta's rotation on June 26, Lopez posted a 3.86 ERA (3.88 FIP) with 28 hits allowed (four homers), eight walks, and 27 strikeouts in 28 innings across six starts. Lopez will be a matchup-based streamer to close things out in 2026 if he stays in the Braves' rotation through the end of September.
Sep 4 · Source via Atlanta Braves Reynaldo LopezTyler Mahle a Waiver-Wire Priority After Strong Start With Atlanta
Right-hander Tyler Mahle went 3-9 with a 5.13 ERA (4.37 FIP) and 1.39 WHIP with 89 strikeouts and 37 walks in 94 2/3 innings and 18 starts to begin the 2026 season with the San Francisco Giants before the Atlanta Braves acquired him in a trade at midseason. Since the move to the first-place Braves, the 31-year-old veteran has looked like a different pitcher, going 2-1 with a 1.48 ERA (2.87 FIP) and 0.96 WHIP with 32 strikeouts and only five walks in 30 1/3 frames over five starts. Mahle has not allowed more than two earned runs in any of his five starts so far for Atlanta, and he gave up only one earned run with no walks and a season-high nine strikeouts in 6 2/3 innings in his last outing on Sunday, Aug. 30, against the Colorado Rockies. He will have a pretty big test his next time out this weekend against the division-rival Philadelphia Phillies. In two starts already this year against the Phils, Mahle allowed five earned runs on nine hits while walking seven and striking out nine in 10 2/3 innings. Mahle will be a riskier fantasy streamer in that matchup, but regardless, he deserves more waiver-wire attention down the stretch. Mahle is currently rostered in just over half of Yahoo leagues.
Sep 3 · Source via Atlanta Braves Tyler MahleBraves Select Blake Burkhalter, Kyle Farmer
Sept. 1: Atlanta announced Tuesday that both Burkhalter and Farmer were selected to the major league roster. Righty Robert Suarez moves to the 60-day IL to open a 40-man spot. He's already missed more than 60 days due to elbow inflammation, making the move a mere formality. Aug. 31: The Braves appear set to call [...]
Sep 1 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Atlanta Braves Kyle FarmerHurston Waldrep to Undergo Tommy John Surgery
According to Mark Bowman, Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Hurston Waldrep (elbow) will undergo Tommy John surgery on his right elbow. Waldrep had surgery in February to remove loose bodies from his elbow. He made three appearances for the Braves before heading to Triple-A Gwinnett. Waldrep suffered a setback with his elbow during his first outing back in the minors. It has been determined he'll require Tommy John surgery, which will likely knock him out until 2028. This is tough news for the 24-year-old, but hopefully he'll get healthy and back on the mound soon.
Aug 28 · Source via Atlanta Braves Hurston WaldrepSpencer Strider is Unlikely to Return This Season
Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Spencer Strider (elbow) is unlikely to get back on the mound this season, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports. Strider has been sidelined since the middle of June due to right elbow inflammation. He has resumed throwing, but it doesn't sound like he has made enough progress to make it back to the mound this season. It's worth noting that the Braves haven't officially ruled out Strider yet, but it seems unlikely that he'll pitch again in 2026. If his season is done, Strider will finish the year with a 5.31 ERA, 1.35 WHIP, and a 46/20 K/BB ratio across eight starts. Fantasy managers in redraft formats are probably safe to move on.
Aug 28 · Source via Atlanta Braves Spencer StriderSpencer Schwellenbach to Have Season-Ending Elbow Surgery
According to Mark Bowman, Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Spencer Schwellenbach (elbow) will undergo season-ending surgery to repair a fracture in his right elbow. Schwellenbach hasn't pitched all season after he underwent a procedure to remove bone spurs earlier this spring. It sounds like the issue didn't go away, so he'll need elbow surgery to fully repair the problem. Schwellenbach hasn't pitched in 14 months, and his status for the beginning of the 2027 season is now in doubt. Schwellenbach can safely be dropped in all redraft formats now. Hopefully, the Braves will be able to get something out of Schwellenbach next season.
Aug 28 · Source via Atlanta Braves Spencer SchwellenbachBraves Claim Ricky Vanasco
The Braves announced that they have claimed right-hander Ricky Vanasco off waivers from the Tigers and optioned him to Triple-A Gwinnett. Detroit designated him for assignment earlier this week when they signed Tyler Kinley, who had been released by Atlanta. Kinley's release gave Atlanta an open 40-man spot, which Vanasco now fills. Vanasco, 27, started [...]
Aug 26 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Detroit Tigers Atlanta Braves Ricky VanascoReynaldo Lopez to Begin Rehab Assignment on Sunday
Atlanta Braves pitcher Reynaldo Lopez (knee) is scheduled to begin a minor league rehab assignment with Triple-A Gwinnett on Sunday, according to Chad Bishop. Lopez has been out since late July due to left knee inflammation. It's unclear at the moment how many rehab appearances he'll need before rejoining the Braves. Barring any setbacks, fantasy managers should expect Lopez to be back in the mix in September. His fantasy value will be dependent on whether he returns as a starting pitcher or reliever. This season, Lopez owns a 3.64 ERA, 1.34 WHIP, and a 66/29 K/BB ratio across 24 games (11 starts) with the Braves. Fantasy managers in deep leagues could stash Lopez as a helpful option down the stretch of the season.
Aug 21 · Source via Atlanta Braves Reynaldo LopezTyler Mahle Emerging as a Waiver-Wire Target Amidst Current Surge
Since being acquired by the Atlanta Braves from the San Francisco Giants at the trade deadline, veteran right-hander Tyler Mahle has gotten hot on the mound. Across 18 2/3 innings (three starts) for the Braves, Mahle has allowed just three earned runs while recording 19 strikeouts. The 31-year-old's overall line for the season isn't great, as he's recorded a 4-10 record with a 4.53 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, and 108 strikeouts across 113 1/3 innings (21 starts). However, Mahle is now in a much better position to rack up wins following the move to Atlanta, and pitching for a contender may have been the jolt he needed to revitalize his 2026 campaign. Mahle had an extended stretch of high-end production as recently as 2025, when he pitched to a 2.18 ERA and 1.13 WHIP across 86 2/3 innings (16 starts) with the Texas Rangers. As a matchup-dependent streamer, fantasy managers should consider Mahle on the waiver wire.
Aug 20 · Source via Atlanta Braves Tyler MahleAJ Smith-Shawver to Start on Wednesday Against Twins
The Atlanta Braves will start right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver on Wednesday against the Minnesota Twins, according to Gabe Burns of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. It will be only Smith-Shawver's second start in the big leagues this year after returning from Tommy John surgery. His first start with Atlanta in 2026 came on July 29 against the division-rival New York Mets, when he allowed two earned runs on four hits while walking two and striking out four in only 4 1/3 innings for a no-decision. The 23-year-old former seventh-rounder in 2021 has fared better in seven minor-league starts (28 2/3 innings) this year with Single-A Augusta and Triple-A Gwinnett, going 2-0 with a 1.57 ERA, 0.98 WHIP, and 34:9 K:BB. Whether Smith-Shawver sticks around in Atlanta for more starts going forward could depend on how he does in his start on Wednesday against the Twins. In his first three years in the big leagues, Smith-Shawver posted a 3.77 ERA (4.79 FIP) and 1.29 WHIP with 66 strikeouts and 34 walks in 74 innings across 16 outings (15 starts).
Aug 18 · Source via Atlanta Braves AJ Smith-ShawverMatt Olson Showcasing Elite Upside with Power Surge in August
Across 529 plate appearances in 2026, Atlanta Braves first baseman Matt Olson is hitting .264/.340/.549 with 35 home runs, 74 RBI, 86 runs scored, and two stolen bases. The lefty slugger has been a consistent source of high-end power in Atlanta all season long, but he's been especially productive of late. Across his first 46 plate appearances of August, Olson has already hit six home runs. After hitting 54 homers in 2023, Olson logged back-to-back seasons with 29 dingers. He looks to have gotten back to his 2023 form in 2026, as his 15.6% barrel rate is his highest since that breakout year. Olson's hard-hit rate also remains over 50%, which helps keep his batting average in a respectable place despite his slightly elevated 25.3% strikeout rate. With his ability to hit for power and his place in the stellar Braves lineup, Olson profiles as a high-end fantasy first baseman who should continue to provide elite four-category production.
Aug 13 · Source via Atlanta Braves Matt OlsonRonald Acuna Jr. Extends Hit Streak With Two-Homer Game Against Marlins
Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. could be in the midst of coming alive offensively after what was a disappointing and injury-plagued first half of the season. In the team's 11-3 blowout win over the division-rival Miami Marlins at Truist Park on Thursday, Acuna went 2-for-5 at the plate with two home runs and three RBI to extend his current hitting streak to a modest five games. It was the 28-year-old's second multi-homer game of the season and the 16th time in his career. During his five-game hitting streak in August, Acuna has gone 6-for-21 (.286) with three home runs, four RBI, and five runs scored. Since returning from his second stint on the injured list this year with hamstring issues, Acuna has hit .205 (8-for-39) with a .792 OPS, four homers, five RBI, eight runs scored, three walks, and 12 strikeouts in just 10 games played. The former MVP still has the talent to be a difference-maker down the stretch, but it's a bit worrisome that he hasn't been running yet since his return. Acuna is now slashing .244/.358/.436 on the season with a .794 OPS, 11 homers, 27 RBI, 15 steals, and 39 runs scored in his 234 at-bats.
Aug 7 · Source via Atlanta Braves Ronald AcunaBraves Acquire Lane Thomas, Bailey Falter From Royals
9:41pm: Both sides have officially announced the trade. 8:34pm: The Braves are adding outfielder Lane Thomas and left-hander Bailey Falter in a trade with the Royals, reports Jeff Passan of ESPN. It'll be minor league pitchers Carter Holton and Lucas Braun heading back to Kansas City, per Robert Murray of FanSided. Atlanta picks up a veteran [...]
Aug 2 · MLB Trade Rumors Kansas City Royals Atlanta Braves Bailey Falter Lane ThomasSpencer Schwellenbach Aiming to Return in September
Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Spencer Schwellenbach (elbow) has been successfully throwing bullpen sessions at the team's Spring Training complex and will continue to do so next week. His velocity has yet to reach the level it did last year, when he averaged 97.1 mph on his fastball, but neither he nor the team is concerned about that. In fact, Schwellenbach believes that once he begins pitching in games, his velocity will return to where it was last season when he was healthy. As it stands, he will fly back to Florida to continue his recovery, with the hope of beginning a rehab assignment in late August. Given that timeline, there is a window for him to return to the Braves in time for the final two to three weeks of the season. It is also worth mentioning that it has yet to be determined whether he will return as a starter or in a relief role. Despite his limited projected availability and the possibility of a role change, his fantasy relevance is still notable, since his upside is high enough to warrant a stash in most fantasy leagues, especially since his return could coincide with the fantasy baseball playoffs.
Aug 1 · Source via Atlanta Braves Spencer SchwellenbachMauricio Dubon Slumping, Falling Off Fantasy Radar
Braves outfielder Mauricio Dubon has struggled mightily over his last 15 games, hitting .186 with a .210 OBP and .271 slugging percentage. His strikeout rate is on pace to reach a career high, and his inability to make consistent contact has contributed to his recent decline. Dubon is now slashing .260/.311/.403 with a .714 OPS after an outstanding start to the season. The 32-year-old should continue to receive regular playing time as the Braves enter August, giving him an opportunity to break out of his slump. However, his recent production has significantly lowered his fantasy value. Managers can leave Dubon on the waiver wire until he begins to show more consistency at the plate.
Jul 29 · Source via Atlanta Braves Mauricio DubonBraves Re-Sign Kyle Farmer To Minor League Deal
The Braves re-signed infielder Kyle Farmer to a minor league contract and assigned him to Triple-A Gwinnett. He would've debuted with the Stripers tonight before the game was rained out. Farmer is back in the organization after being released last week. He'd spent the season on the big league roster around a six-week injured list stint [...]
Jul 29 · MLB Trade Rumors Atlanta Braves Kyle FarmerRaisel Iglesias Charged With Blown Save as Struggles Linger
Atlanta Braves right-handed closer Raisel Iglesias continued to struggle on Sunday in the team's 3-2 extra-inning win over the hosting Baltimore Orioles at Camden Yards and was charged with his second blown save of the season. In his inning of work, Iglesias allowed an unearned run with a walk and a strikeout. The blown save was aided by an error from second baseman Ozzie Albies, but this was Iglesias' second blown save in his last eight outings after he locked down his first 17 save chances of the year. The 36-year-old veteran from Cuba is 0-2 on the season with a 2.43 ERA (2.84 FIP), 1.08 WHIP, 21 saves, 43 strikeouts, and eight walks in 37 relief innings in 2026 in his 12th year in the big leagues. Iglesias definitely hasn't been as sharp in 9 2/3 innings in 10 outings in July, allowing seven runs (six earned) on 10 hits (three homers) while walking two and striking out 13, but he probably isn't in any imminent danger of being demoted from the closer role, especially with top setup man Robert Suarez (elbow) currently on the injured list.
Jul 27 · Source via Closers Atlanta Braves Raisel IglesiasRonald Acuna Jr. Not Returning on Sunday Against Orioles
Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. (hamstring) is not being reinstated from the 10-day injured list for the team's series finale in Baltimore on Sunday against the Orioles, according to MLB.com. Mike Yastrzemski is making the start in right field for Atlanta and will bat eighth against Orioles right-hander Shane Baz. Acuna is believed to be ready to go following his second IL stint due to a left-hamstring strain, but the Braves are being cautious with him. He likely would have returned this weekend in Baltimore had his minor-league rehab game with Triple-A Gwinnett not been rained out on Friday. Barring something unforeseen, the Braves should activate the former MVP for Monday's series opener versus the division-rival New York Mets. The 28-year-old Venezuelan outfielder has been a massive disappointment for fantasy managers so far in 2026 because of his hamstring issues, but he still has five-category upside and could be a difference-maker down the stretch. Acuna will be returning to a .251/.373/.421 slash line with a .793 OPS, seven home runs, 22 RBI, 15 stolen bases, and 31 runs scored across his 195 at-bats.
Jul 26 · Source via Atlanta Braves Ronald AcunaIt's Time To Stash AJ Smith-Shawver
Atlanta Braves starting pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver (elbow) is set to make one more rehab start this week for Triple-A Gwinnett after throwing 86 pitches in his most recent outing on Thursday. The 23-year-old has been impressive during his rehab assignment, recording 21 strikeouts over 17.2 innings while posting a 1.53 ERA and 1.19 WHIP. The expectation is that this upcoming start will be his final one before being activated by the Braves, allowing fantasy managers to add him now before his value rises. Smith-Shawver has shown success in the past, posting a 3.86 ERA with a 22.0% strikeout rate in 2025 before suffering an elbow injury that required Tommy John surgery in June 2025. Now that he is on the verge of returning to Atlanta, he could be a prime candidate to replace the struggling Reynaldo Lpez, who has allowed nine earned runs over his last two starts.
Jul 25 · Source via Atlanta Braves AJ Smith-ShawverRonald Acuna Jr. Playing in Minor-League Doubleheader Saturday
Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. (hamstring) will play in a doubleheader on Saturday for Triple-A Gwinnett after Friday's minor-league game was rained out. Braves manager Walt Weiss expects the superstar to play seven innings in each game, eliminating the possibility of him being reinstated from the Injured List today. Weiss also mentioned that he is waiting to hear from the 28-year-old outfielder when he feels ready to return, though it is expected to happen sooner rather than later. Acua has hit one home run, stolen one base, and is batting .217, but those aren't the numbers that concern the Braves. Instead, the team has focused on the quality of his contact, as the former All-Star has hit 14 balls in play at 95 mph or harder. All that being said, he is close to returning and should be immediately inserted into all fantasy lineups once he is finally reinstated from the Injured List.
Jul 25 · Source via Atlanta Braves Ronald AcunaBraves Designate Elieser Hernandez For Assignment
The Braves announced that right-hander Elieser Hernandez has been designated for assignment, and left-hander Connor Thomas was called up from Triple-A Gwinnett in the corresponding move. Thomas was already on the 40-man roster, so Atlanta now has two open spots on its 40-man. Hernandez signed a minor league deal with the Braves last winter, and [...]
Jul 25 · MLB Trade Rumors Atlanta Braves Elieser HernandezRonald Acuna Jr. Unlikely to Rejoin Braves This Weekend
It now appears unlikely that Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. (hamstring) will come off the 10-day injured list to join the team for their series this weekend in Baltimore against the Orioles, according to Chad Bishop of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Acuna was expected to play in his final minor-league rehab game with Triple-A Gwinnett on Friday, but the Stripers' game was postponed due to inclement weather, and manager Walt Weiss said that Acuna could play both games of the twin bill with Gwinnett on Saturday. The most likely scenario now is that the Braves give Acuna the day off on Sunday before activating him for Monday's series opener in New York against the division-rival Mets. The 28-year-old Venezuelan and former MVP has been on the IL twice this year due to left-hamstring strains, which is why his counting stats are down in 2026. Acuna is hitting just .251 (49-for-195) with seven home runs, 22 RBI, 15 stolen bases, and 31 runs scored in his 195 at-bats, but he can be a difference-maker for fantasy managers down the stretch if he stays healthy.
Jul 24 · Source via Atlanta Braves Ronald AcunaOzzie Albies Could be Buy-Low Target
Atlanta Braves second baseman Ozzie Albies was one of the best hitters in the game to begin the season. Since May 1, Albies is slashing .234/.289/.381, which has certainly been a bummer for fantasy managers. Overall, Albies hasn't posted bad stats with 15 home runs and 55 RBI while slashing .262/.314/.430 in 101 games. He earned himself his fourth trip to the All-Star Game despite not having a ton of success at the plate over the last few months. His cold spell at the plate might make him easier for fantasy managers to buy-low on him right now. Albies is a consistent enough bat, but his struggles over the last few weeks might be enough to pry him away from fantasy managers.
Jul 23 · Source via Atlanta Braves Ozzie AlbiesMichael Harris II is Intriguing Sell-High Option
Atlanta Braves outfielder Michael Harris II is enjoying a bounce-back season at the plate. Through 95 games, Harris is slashing .296/.325/.499 with 18 home runs, 60 RBI, and six steals. There is a good chance that Harris sets a new career high in homers this season. The 2026 season is the best Harris has looked at the plate since his sophomore campaign in 2023. The hope is that the 23-year-old continues to hit like this, but fantasy managers should cash in now. Harris has sky-high value at the moment, so fantasy managers should take advantage and sell high on him.
Jul 23 · Source via Atlanta Braves Michael HarrisChris Sale Strikes Out 11 in 11th Win on Thursday Over Padres
Atlanta Braves left-hander Chris Sale continued his excellent 2026 season in Thursday's 6-5 win over the visiting San Diego Padres in the series finale at Truist Park. Sale allowed three earned runs (all in the second inning) on five hits while walking one and striking out a season-high 11 batters in six innings to earn his 11th win of the year and drop his season ERA to 2.19, which is the second-lowest in the majors. The 37-year-old veteran southpaw, former Cy Young winner, and 10-time All-Star has managed to stay healthy in his 16th year in the big leagues and now has a 1.05 WHIP with 134 strikeouts and 26 walks across 111 innings pitched and 19 starts. Sale will be a no-brainer must-start (as he always is) in his next scheduled outing against the last-place New York Mets. In his first meeting with the Mets on the Fourth of July, he won his ninth game, allowing three earned runs while walking two and striking out only three in five innings of work.
Jul 23 · Source via Atlanta Braves Chris SaleRonald Acuna Jr. Expected to Return This Weekend
Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. (hamstring) will play in a minor-league rehab game with Triple-A Gwinnett on Thursday night, and manager Walt Weiss said there's a possibility that he'll be activated from the 10-day injured list on Friday, according to Mark Bowman of MLB.com. But if Acuna doesn't return on Friday, he's expected to return for this weekend's series in Baltimore against the Orioles. Fantasy managers have been chomping at the bit to get the former MVP back in their lineups, as he's been out since early June with a Grade 1 strained left hamstring, the second time in 2026 that he's been on the IL for the same injury. While the 28-year-old Venezuelan outfielder has been a huge disappointment in fantasy this year because of injuries yet again, he still has time left to make a big difference down the stretch. The five-time All-Star and three-time Silver Slugger winner will be returning to a .251/.373/.421 slash line, .793 OPS, seven home runs, 22 RBI, 15 stolen bases, and 31 runs scored across his 195 at-bats.
Jul 23 · Source via Atlanta Braves Ronald AcunaReynaldo Lopez Is Now a Matchup Play After Another Rough Start
Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Reynaldo Lopez took another hit Tuesday, July 21, allowing five earned runs on nine hits and three walks over 4 1/3 innings in an 8-3 loss to San Diego. He did strike out six, but Jackson Merrill and Manny Machado both took him deep. Lopez now owns a 3.95 ERA, 1.36 WHIP, and 60 strikeouts over 66 innings. St. Louis had already tagged him for four runs over five innings in his previous start, leaving nine earned runs and 14 hits across the last two. Atlanta is still using Lopez in the rotation, though he has not completed more than five innings since moving back into that role June 26. Lopez is on 24% of Yahoo rosters, and RotoBaller has dropped him to its 15-team range. The SP/RP eligibility helps. In standard mixed leagues, he is now a matchup play rather than someone who needs to be held.
Jul 22 · Source via Atlanta Braves Reynaldo LopezAJ Smith-Shawver a Priority Waiver-Wire Stash Ahead of Impending Return
Atlanta Braves right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver (elbow) has yet to pitch in the big leagues in 2026 as he works his way back from Tommy John surgery, which he underwent in June 2025. However, the 23-year-old began a minor league rehab assignment in late June and has now made four appearances in the minors, with his two most recent starts coming at Triple-A. Smith-Shawver has pitched well in his rehab outings, recording a 1.98 ERA and a 1.32 WHIP with 16 strikeouts across 13 2/3 innings. Before getting injured last season, the hard-throwing right-hander recorded a 3-2 record with a 3.86 ERA, 1.42 WHIP, and 42 strikeouts across 44 1/3 innings (nine starts). With Braves left-hander Martin Perez (forearm) landing on the injured list in early July due to a forearm contusion, Smith-Shawver should immediately have a role in the Atlanta rotation once he's ready to return to the big leagues. Particularly in deeper leagues, fantasy managers should look to stash Smith-Shawver off the waiver wire ahead of his impending return.
Jul 22 · Source via Atlanta Braves AJ Smith-ShawverBraves Release Kyle Farmer
The Braves announced that outfielder Mike Yastrzemski has been reinstated from the 10-day injured list. Infielder Kyle Farmer has been released as the corresponding move. He'll become a free agent once he clears release waivers, if he hasn't already. Farmer, 35, signed a minor league deal with Atlanta in the offseason. Due to his veteran [...]
Jul 21 · MLB Trade Rumors Atlanta Braves Kyle FarmerRonald Acuna Jr.'s Return Not Imminent
Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. (hamstring) played right field during a minor-league rehab game for the first time on Sunday at Triple-A Gwinnett, but manager Walt Weiss said there's no guarantee he'll come off the 10-day injured list before the team's homestand concludes this Thursday, according to MLB.com's Mark Bowman. "He's still got some days ahead of him," Weiss said. "We just want to make sure he doesn't have to try to figure it out or struggle up here. We've seen that with guys, right? It's tough to have patience because these guys move the needle. A guy like Acua is an aircraft carrier. He moves the needle for our team. But we have to use good judgment there." The 2023 National League MVP went 0-for-2 with a sacrifice fly and a walk on Sunday and went 1-for-7 with a home run in three games in the rookie-level Florida Complex League last week. He's gone 1-for-5 in two games so far with Gwinnett. The Braves continue to show caution with Acuna, who has strained his left hamstring twice in 2026. Weiss primarily plans to use Acuna in right field when he returns, although there could be days when he's used at DH. The 28-year-old Venezuelan has hit .251 (49-for-195) with seven homers, 22 RBI, 31 runs, and 15 steals so far this year. It's been a major disappointment for fantasy managers, but Acuna still can be a difference-maker once he returns as a five-category contributor.
Jul 20 · Source via Atlanta Braves Ronald AcunaMauricio Dubon Could Lose Playing Time Soon
Atlanta Braves infielder/outfielder Mauricio Dubon has been a key utility man for the Braves in 2026 in his first season with the team, hitting .266/.318/.417 with a .735 OPS in 94 games across his 386 plate appearances. Although Dubon has never really been known for his power at the plate, he's already tied his career high of 10 home runs in his eighth year in the majors, and he's also added a career-high 53 RBI, 44 runs scored, and three steals. The 32-year-old veteran is hitting .262 (16-for-61) with a .728 OPS, two homers, three doubles, 10 RBI, nine runs scored, and a stolen base in 15 games and 67 plate appearances in the month of July. For fantasy purposes, Dubon is most appealing in deeper formats for his lack of strikeouts (14.5% strikeout rate), although he also doesn't walk much either (6.5% walk rate). Dubon is also appealing in fantasy for his eligibility at second base, third base, shortstop, and the outfield. He's currently rostered in just a hair under half of Yahoo leagues, but that number may begin to fall if he loses out on regular playing time once Ronald Acuna Jr. (hamstring) returns from the injured list in the near future.
Jul 20 · Source via Atlanta Braves Mauricio DubonAustin Riley Could be Breaking Out of his Funk After Two-Homer Game
Atlanta Braves third baseman Austin Riley has been a big disappointment so far in 2026, but he has shown a bit more power so far in July, and he went 3-for-4 at the plate with two home runs, four RBI, and a strikeout in Sunday's 8-5 win over the visiting Texas Rangers. The 29-year-old right-handed slugger is still hitting just .217/.296/.361 with a .657 OPS, 12 home runs, 47 RBI, 43 runs scored, and six stolen bases in his 355 at-bats on the season after the big performance, which shows you just how much he has struggled in his eighth year in the big leagues. The big game on Sunday was Riley's second multi-homer game of the year and the 10th of his career. He has now homered three times in his last three games, and Riley is batting .273 (15-for-55) with four home runs, a double, 10 RBI, 10 runs scored, and two stolen bases in 15 games and 62 plate appearances in July. It's been nice to see Riley pick things up a bit so far this month, but we'd caution fantasy managers looking to buy low on him since he's sitting with an expected batting average of .209 and an xwOBA of .298 (wOBA of .293).
Jul 20 · Source via Atlanta Braves Austin RileyDrake Baldwin Stays Hot in July With Two Homers, Five Hits on Sunday
Atlanta Braves catcher Drake Baldwin is one of the hottest hitters in baseball in the month of July, and that continued on Sunday in the team's 8-5 win over the visiting Texas Rangers at Truist Park. Baldwin went 5-for-5 at the plate with two home runs and three RBI as the leadoff hitter to boost his season average to .276 and his OPS to .843. The 25-year-old left-handed-hitting backstop is now hitting .368 (21-for-57) with a 1.050 OPS, four home runs, 15 RBI, 12 runs scored, and a stolen base in 15 games in July to raise his season slash line to .276/.362/.481. Baldwin has also homered three times in his last three games. It has been nice to see for the Braves and fantasy managers alike after Baldwin struggled to a .063/.100/.125 slash line, one homer, an RBI, three runs scored, one walk, and 22 strikeouts in 12 games in June after returning from a stint on the injured list. His two-homer game on Sunday against Texas was the second multi-homer game of his career, and it was also the first time in his career with at least four hits. It's safe to say Baldwin is now back in the flow offensively, and he could be a difference-maker in fantasy leagues in the second half.
Jul 20 · Source via Atlanta Braves Drake BaldwinMartin Perez is Expected to Return on Wednesday
Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Martin Perez (forearm) is expected to rejoin the starting rotation on Wednesday. On Saturday, manager Walt Weiss said Perez is likely going to be ready for the upcoming homestand beginning on Monday. If the Braves slot Perez into Wednesday's spot, that would give Chris Sale an extra day of rest. The veteran southpaw has been out since July 6 due to a left forearm contusion. So far this season, Perez owns a 3.54 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, and a 62/32 K/BB ratio across 18 games (14 starts) with the Braves. Perez lacks swing-and-miss stuff, but still offers low-end fantasy value. He's someone worth considering in deep leagues for fantasy managers seeking help in the pitching department.
Jul 19 · Source via Atlanta Braves Martin PerezAJ Smith-Shawver Pitches Well During Rehab Outing
Atlanta Braves starting pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver (elbow) took the mound for a rehab start with Triple-A Gwinnett on Saturday. It went well as Smith-Shawver tossed 4.1 scoreless innings, allowing four hits, while striking out five batters. He threw 72 pitches and touched nearly 100 mph on his fastball at one point. Smith-Shawver is currently working his way back from Tommy John surgery, which he underwent in June of last year. He's expected to make a couple more rehab outings before rejoining the Braves rotation. The 23-year-old could be an option for the Braves in early August. Smith-Shawver could be worth stashing for fantasy managers who are desperate for pitching help.
Jul 19 · Source via Atlanta Braves AJ Smith-ShawverDrake Baldwin Gets his Second Half Started With Five-RBI Night
Atlanta Braves catcher Drake Baldwin led the charge in Friday night's 15-1 blowout win over the visiting Texas Rangers at Truist Park to get the second half of the season started, going 3-for-4 at the plate out of the leadoff spot with a home run, five RBI, two runs scored, and a walk to raise his season batting average to .261 and his OPS to .804. Baldwin's home run was a three-run shot off right-hander Cal Quantrill in the fourth inning, and it was his 16th long ball of the year after he slugged 19 in an impressive rookie campaign in 2025. It was nice to see the second-year backstop go deep to begin the second half, as it was just his second round-tripper since June 17. Baldwin missed some time in the first half with an injury, but he has still produced an OPS over .800 with 51 RBI and a stolen base in 324 plate appearances. In 12 games in July before this week's All-Star break, Baldwin hit. 256 (11-for-43) with a homer, seven RBI, and seven runs scored. A second-half breakout could be coming for the former third-rounder from Mississippi State University.
Jul 17 · Source via Atlanta Braves Drake BaldwinSpencer Schwellenbach Without a Clear Timetable to Return in 2026
When MLB.com's Mark Bowman asked if it's just a maybe that right-hander Spencer Schwellenbach (elbow) pitches this year, Atlanta Braves manager Walt Weiss said, "I wouldn't say it's inaccurate. I think there is a chance we see both of them (also Spencer Strider) this year. But sitting here today, it's hard to say." Reports surfaced in late June that Schwellenbach could be a candidate to rejoin the Braves' starting rotation in late August or early September, but there haven't been any real updates since then. The 26-year-old is recovering from surgery to remove bone spurs from his right elbow and has yet to pitch at all this year. The fact that we haven't heard of Schwellenbach starting a throwing program could mean that he won't pitch at all for the Braves in 2026. He definitely has a long way to go, which is why he's rostered in only 22% of Yahoo leagues right now. In 38 starts and 234 1/3 innings pitched in his first two years in the big leagues, Schwellenbach has handled himself well, going 15-11 with a 3.23 ERA (3.27 FIP) and 1.01 WHIP with 235 strikeouts and 41 walks for the Braves.
Jul 17 · Source via Atlanta Braves Spencer SchwellenbachSpencer Strider Might Not Pitch Again for Braves This Year
When MLB.com's Mark Bowman asked if it's accurate that it feels like right-hander Spencer Strider (elbow) is done for the 2026 season, Atlanta Braves manager Walt Weiss said, "I wouldn't say it's inaccurate. I think there is a chance we see both of them (also Spencer Schwellengach) this year. But sitting here today, it's hard to say." The Braves moved Strider to the 60-day injured list in mid-June after he was initially shut down with inflammation in his right elbow. Dr. Keith Meister recommended that Strider be shut down for a month to rest his elbow, but there hasn't been much of an update since. At the very least, the 27-year-old won't be eligible to return to the Braves' starting rotation until sometime in September if he makes it back at all in 2026. With the uncertainty surrounding the availability of Strider for the rest of the season, it's fair to consider dropping him in single-year leagues, if you haven't already done so. He's currently rostered in just over half of Yahoo leagues after going 4-2 with a 5.31 ERA, 1.36 WHIP, and 46 strikeouts in 39 innings in his first eight starts of the year.
Jul 17 · Source via Atlanta Braves Spencer StriderRobert Suarez Plays Catch on the Field on Friday
Atlanta Braves right-handed reliever Robert Suarez (elbow) played toss at Truist Park on Friday before the series opener against the visiting Texas Rangers, according to Harrison Smajovits of Sports Illustrated. Suarez's return isn't imminent, but he's slowly working his way back after landing on the 15-day injured list almost a month ago with inflammation in his right elbow. The next step for Suarez will be getting back on a mound and facing live hitters before going on a minor-league rehab assignment. He almost certainly won't be ready to rejoin the back end of Atlanta's bullpen until at least early August. The 35-year-old veteran Venezuelan hurler only has four saves in his first year in Atlanta in 2026 after racking up 76 saves the previous two seasons with the San Diego Padres, but he has still been plenty useful in fantasy as a setup man with a 4-0 record, 0.56 ERA (2.44 FIP), 0.84 WHIP, and 26:6 K:BB in 32 innings in Atlanta. Suarez is now rostered in under half of Yahoo leagues, but he can definitely help your pitching ratios in deeper fantasy leagues when he's ready to return.
Jul 17 · Source via Closers Atlanta Braves Robert SuarezRonald Acuna Jr. Moving his Rehab to Triple-A
The Atlanta Braves announced on Friday that they are moving outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr.'s (hamstring) minor-league rehab assignment to Triple-A Gwinnett. Acuna started a rehab assignment in the rookie-level Florida Complex League during the All-Star break this week and went 1-for-7 with a grand slam in three games played while serving as the designated hitter. The former MVP will now move to the highest minor-league level and will presumably work back into the outfield before the Braves reinstate him from the 10-day injured list, potentially early next week. The 28-year-old Venezuelan still has elite five-category potential for fantasy managers when he's healthy, but he's been sidelined two separate times in 2026 with hamstring issues. It has led to a disappointing .251/.373/.421 line with seven home runs, 22 RBI, 15 stolen bases, and 31 runs scored in his 195 at-bats. Acuna's buy-low window remains open, and he could be a difference-maker in the second half if he can stay off the IL for a third time this year. But fantasy managers holding Acuna through his injuries this year are probably still going to want a lot in return in any trade.
Jul 17 · Source via Atlanta Braves Ronald AcunaDrake Baldwin Is Built for a Second-Half Rebound
Atlanta Braves catcher Drake Baldwin still carried a .254/.345/.437 line with 15 homers and 46 RBI into the break, even after an oblique injury scrambled his summer. He was activated June 15, then went 3-for-48 with 22 strikeouts during the rest of the month. July looked more normal: 11 hits and a .396 on-base percentage in 53 plate appearances. The bat is still loud. Baldwin owns a 51.2% hard-hit rate, a 15.3% barrel rate, and a .512 expected slugging percentage, well above the actual mark. Atlanta has also kept him busy, starting him 44 times behind the plate and 27 more at designated hitter. The swing decisions have slipped, with his chase rate up to 34% and his strikeout rate at 22.3%. That is the blemish. It is not enough to fade a catcher with this much impact and this secure a role. Baldwin remains a strong second-half rebound target.
Jul 16 · Source via Atlanta Braves Drake BaldwinOwen Murphy Set to Make First Big-League Start on Saturday
Atlanta Braves right-handed pitching prospect Owen Murphy is slated to make his first major-league start this Saturday versus the Texas Rangers, according to Mark Bowman of MLB.com. The Braves' No. 5 prospect, per MLB Pipeline, was recalled from Triple-A Gwinnett last weekend and appeared in two games out of the bullpen, allowing two runs (one earned) on one hit while walking none and striking out four. The 22-year-old former 20th overall pick in 2022 made 16 starts in the minors with Gwinnett and Double-A Columbus before his call-up, going 5-7 with a 4.44 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, and 92:38 K:BB in 81 innings pitched. The 6-foot-1, 190-pounder knows how to spin the ball and has displayed solid command and control of the baseball on the farm. Murphy is in his first season post-Tommy John surgery, so the Braves are probably going to be very cautious of his workload down the stretch. Murphy's start on Saturday could end up being a spot start to open the second half of the season, so fantasy managers in single-year leagues shouldn't spend much to land him on the waiver wire.
Jul 15 · Source via Atlanta Braves Owen MurphyRaisel Iglesias Remains a High-End Closer Despite Recent Struggles
Across 32 1/3 innings (31 games) in 2026, Atlanta Braves closer Raisel Iglesias has pitched to a 2.23 ERA and 1.08 WHIP with 36 strikeouts and 19 saves. Iglesias owns a stellar 22.8% K-BB rate, and he's blown just one save chance on the year. The 36-year-old ran into some trouble in July before the All-Star break, allowing four earned runs across five innings this month. Still, Iglesias does an excellent job of limiting both walks (5.5% walk rate) and home runs (0.56 HR/9). As a result, the veteran right-hander rarely succumbs to a blow-up outing: Iglesias has allowed more than one earned run in just two out of his 31 outings this season. As long as he remains healthy, Iglesias remains a solid bet to turn in high-end RP1 production for fantasy managers.
Jul 14 · Source via Closers Atlanta Braves Raisel IglesiasMauricio Dubon a Multi-Positional Depth Piece to Target on the Waiver Wire
Across 372 plate appearances so far in 2026, Atlanta Braves utility man Mauricio Dubon is hitting .265/.319/.420 with 10 home runs, 51 RBI, 42 runs scored, and three stolen bases. Dubon's underlying power metrics remain underwhelming, as he's logged a 4.8% barrel rate and a 30.8% hard-hit rate on the year. However, Dubon limits whiffs (14.7% strikeout rate) and has already matched his career-high for home runs in a season in his first campaign with Atlanta. The 31-year-old's defensive versatility has allowed him to maintain an everyday role in the Braves lineup and also provides valuable multi-positional eligibility for fantasy managers. Dubon may not have the highest production ceiling, but he profiles as a highly useful depth piece for fantasy managers to target on the waiver wire.
Jul 13 · Source via Atlanta Braves Mauricio DubonAJ Smith-Shawver to Make Another Rehab Start
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's Ken Sugiura reports that Atlanta Braves right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver (elbow) will need at least one more minor-league rehab start with Triple-A Gwinnett before becoming a candidate to join the team's starting rotation in the second half of the season. Smith-Shawver has posted a 2.89 ERA, 1.39 WHIP, and 11:3 K:BB in his three rehab starts to this point across 9 1/3 innings with Gwinnett and Single-A Augusta as he finishes up his rehab from Tommy John surgery. The former seventh-round pick in 2021 has only appeared in 16 games (15 starts) for Atlanta since debuting in 2023, but he's been solid with a 4-2 record, 3.77 ERA (4.79 FIP), and 1.29 WHIP with 66 strikeouts and 34 walks in 74 innings pitched at the major-league level. In his first start with Gwinnett on Saturday, Smith-Shawver allowed two runs while walking three in 2 1/3 innings, but he topped out at 98.7 mph on the radar gun. Barring a setback with his elbow, he should be an option for the Braves' rotation in early August. Fantasy managers in deeper leagues should consider stashing Smith-Shawver now. He's currently rostered in 14% of Yahoo leagues.
Jul 13 · Source via Atlanta Braves AJ Smith-ShawverRonald Acuna Jr. Starting Rehab Assignment on Monday
The Atlanta Braves announced that outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. (hamstring) is starting his minor-league rehab assignment on Monday with the rookie-level Florida Complex League Braves. It means that if Acuna can avoid a setback with his hamstring, he could be ready to roll for the Braves coming out of the All-Star break this Friday in the series opener against the Texas Rangers. The former MVP has been on the 10-day injured list for over a month due to a strained left hamstring that put him on the IL for the second time this year. The 28-year-old Venezuelan outfielder has high-end power/speed upside on one of the better teams in baseball, but injuries continue to make him a big risk/reward asset. Now is probably the last time that interested fantasy managers might be able to buy low on him before he returns for the second half. Before his second left-hamstring injury, Acuna was batting .251 (49-for-195) with seven long balls, 22 RBI, 15 stolen bases, and 31 runs scored across his 53 games and 236 plate appearances. The five-time All-Star could be a difference-maker in the second half for Atlanta if he can just stay on the field.
Jul 13 · Source via Atlanta Braves Ronald Acuna