JR Ritchie Struggles in 2026 Rookie Campaign with Atlanta Braves

JR Ritchie faced a challenging rookie campaign with the Atlanta Braves in 2026, posting a -0.3 fWAR with a 117 ERA- across 17 appearances (11 starts). Despite showcasing a promising curveball that generated a nearly 30 percent whiff rate, Ritchie struggled overall with command, allowing a high HR/FB rate above 18 percent and an elevated walk rate. The Braves project the 2022 first-round pick to continue developing in 2027, with early Steamer projections slotting him as an 0.8 WAR swingman over 99 innings.