UPDATE: Atlanta Braves’ pitching prospect JR Ritchie is on the brink of a major league debut after a stellar season that has fans buzzing. The 22-year-old right-hander, ranked as the Braves’ No. 2 prospect by MLB Pipeline, posted an impressive 2.64 ERA across 26 starts at various minor league levels this year.
Just announced, Ritchie is expected to receive his first invitation to big league Spring Training in 2026, a significant step in his rapid ascent through the Braves’ farm system. This news is critical for the Braves as they look to bolster their pitching depth ahead of the upcoming season.
Ritchie’s rise comes at a pivotal moment for the Braves, who are eager to integrate young talent into their rotation. Following the success of fellow pitchers like Spencer Strider and Bryce Elder, who both made headlines in recent seasons, Ritchie could be the next star to watch. His performance this year has left the organization optimistic about his readiness to contribute at the major league level.
Ritchie was selected by the Braves with the 35th overall pick in the 2022 Draft and signed for a lucrative $2.4 million bonus. After undergoing Tommie John surgery in 2023, Ritchie faced challenges but rebounded impressively, demonstrating both talent and durability. In 2025, he finished the season with a 3.02 ERA over 11 starts for Triple-A Gwinnett.
Ritchie’s journey has been remarkable, especially considering he stood just 5-foot-4 as a seventh grader. Growing into a 6-foot-2 powerhouse, he initially dreamed of becoming the next Brett Favre in football. However, a significant growth spurt and training under former Braves pitcher Kevin Gunderson shifted his focus to baseball, where he has truly excelled.
“I started growing my hair out when I was about 15 years old because of Dansby Swanson,” Ritchie said, reflecting on his high school idol. “Really, I wanted Dansby’s hair. I didn’t get it. My hair was too curly. It was worth a shot.” Now, the Braves may be ready to see if Ritchie can emulate Swanson’s success on the field.
With the new season looming, attention turns to Ritchie, who may follow the path of other young pitchers like Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep, both of whom made significant impacts after midseason call-ups in the past two years. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating whether Ritchie will be the next bright spot in a promising pitching lineup.
As the Braves prepare for the 2026 season, all eyes will be on Ritchie as he aims to prove he’s ready for the big leagues. His journey from an aspiring football player to a top baseball prospect is a testament to his determination and talent, making his potential debut a story to watch closely.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Braves finalize their roster for Spring Training and beyond.
