Atlanta Braves pitcher Spencer Schwellenbach delivered one for the books regarding surprising breakout seasons.
MLB Network took note, placing the rookie 14th in its Top 25 Rookies of 2024. While the ranking is a big deal, one could argue it doesn’t fully reflect Schwellenbach’s unbelievable debut.
Schwellenbach’s call-up was unexpected. It was prompted by an oblique injury to fellow prospect AJ Smith-Shawver. At the time, Schwellenbach was the Braves’ No. 3 prospect, honing his craft in Double-A Mississippi.
Braves Rookie Spencer Schwellenbach’s 2024 Season Statistically
Fast forward, and the rookie made 21 starts in the majors, posting a 3.35 ERA, 1.04 WHIP, and 127 strikeouts over 123 2/3 innings. Those numbers alone are impressive, but zoom in on his final 15 starts, and he really found his groove with a 2.54 ERA and 0.92 WHIP.
Statistically, Schwellenbach ranked among the top rookie pitchers. His WHIP was third among qualified rookies, while his ERA and opponent’s batting average (.226) were both fifth. Yet, some of the names ahead of him on the MLB Network list raise eyebrows.
For instance, Detroit Tigers second baseman Colt Keith came in at No. 11 despite a lower WAR (1.1 to Schwellenbach’s 2.7) and a weaker OPS+ compared to Schwellenbach’s ERA+ (96 vs. 124). The case for Keith? Likely just more playing time.
Even when stacked against the American League Rookie of the Year, Yankees pitcher Luis Gil, Schwellenbach holds his own. He leads Gil in several categories, including ERA, WHIP, ERA+, FIP, and walks per nine innings.
To be fair, Gil edges him in the opponent’s batting average, WAR, and traditional wins, but the comparison shows Schwellenbach deserves a ranking closer to Gil’s level.
Ultimately, Schwellenbach’s debut exceeded expectations, and this ranking is just the beginning. With more career years ahead, there’s little doubt he’ll climb higher in future rookie lists. Stay tuned—this kid is just getting started.
