Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Spencer Strider's return could be spark Braves pitching staff needs

By David Hill | Last updated Apr 11, 2025 2:42 PM ET

The Atlanta Braves find themselves in an unfamiliar place entering Friday. With a 3-9 record, they are tied with the Rockies for the worst record in the National League and need a spark to jumpstart the season.

Such a spark may be arriving soon. All-Star pitcher Spencer Strider made just two appearances for the Braves in 2024 before surgery on his right ulnar collateral ligament ended his season prematurely. He is currently on a rehab assignment with the Triple-A Gwinnett Stripers as he looks to return to the majors.

Strider appears to be ready now. He has been utterly dominant during his 13.2 Triple-A innings, allowing just two runs on five hits and five walks while striking out 27 batters.

Strider was particularly impressive in his outing on Thursday, allowing one run on three hits and two walks over 5.1 innings, striking out 13 batters. He threw 86 pitches in the outing, 59 for strikes.

Spencer Strider just struck out 13 of the 21 batters he faced on 90 pitches... Chat, is that good?

5.1 IP | 3 H | 1 ER | 2 BB | 13 SO pic.twitter.com/3MDs4zZArV
— Gwinnett Stripers (@GoStripers) April 10, 2025

The Braves' pitching staff would surely welcome Strider's return. While Spencer Schwellenbach has been able to build on an impressive 2024 season, the same cannot be said for the rest of the rotation.

Reynaldo Lopez, who had a breakout 2024 campaign of his own, underwent surgery on his right shoulder and will be shut down for 12 weeks. Chris Sale and Grant Holmes have been unable to replicate their performances from last year.

Strider may be what the Braves, and their ailing pitching staff, need. Based on his rehab performance, he is ready to resume his place as the staff ace. Strider, Schwellenbach and Sale should provide the Braves with a formidable trio atop the rotation.

If Strider can return to form, the Braves may be able to snap out of their early season malaise.

David Hill

Based in the mountains of Vermont, Dave has over a decade of experience writing about all things baseball. Just don't ask his thoughts on the universal DH.

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