This is the version of Hurston Waldrep the Braves envisioned when they drafted him in the first round of the 2023 MLB Draft. While his seven-inning cameo with the Braves last season didn’t go well, he has made that look like a distant memory this season.

ATLANTA — In an eventful seven days for the Atlanta Braves that began with a win at the speedway in Bristol, Tenn., and ended with a series-clinching doubleheader sweep of the previously surging Miami Marlins, a pair of rookies gave Braves fans something to be excited about from the team’s woeful season.

Based on FanGraphs’ WAR, the only rookie as valuable as him so far this season is Nick Kurtz.

Waldrep, making just his fifth big league start, limited the Guardians to two hits and two walks while striking out seven in six innings. He allowed a two-out double by Kwan in the third and a Kwan leadoff single in the sixth to go along with a pair of Kyle Manzardo walks on the way to his third win.

The Atlanta Braves have outrighted two pitchers to Triple-A Gwinnett: Right-hander Davis Daniel and right-hander Carlos Carrasco. Instead of accepting his assignment, Carrasco has opted for free agency.

Eric Samulski likes Hurston Waldrep's upside for the Atlanta Braves after strong starts in recent weeks. Waldrep's adjustments to his mechanics and pitch arsenal has made him an interesting add in fantasy.

1. Hurston Waldrep, RHP (22 years old) The short version: Big-time stuff plagued by command concerns. MLB ETA: Summer 2024 Scouts regarded Waldrep as a possible top-10 pick throughout last spring ...

Amid a turbulent season, the most positive development of the Braves 2025 campaign has emerged in the form of Hurston Waldrep. The hope coming into the