“Strikeout Sensation: Is Spencer Strider’s Triple-A Triumph a Sign He’s Ready to Ignite the Braves’ Rotation?”

Spencer Strider, the Atlanta Braves’ standout pitcher, is on the cusp of making a triumphant return from elbow surgery, and fans couldn’t be more excited! After dazzling the crowd with an impressive 13 strikeouts in just over five innings during his second injury rehabilitation outing for Triple-A Gwinnett, Strider’s performance has everyone buzzing about his upcoming season debut. He flashed his renowned fastball—reaching a sizzling 97 mph—and showcased precision that hints at his readiness to rejoin the Braves’ rotation. With everything that’s been thrown at him since his last major league appearance in April of last year, it’s exhilarating to think how he might elevate the Braves’ already potent lineup. Manager Brian Snitker expressed optimism about Strider’s progress, noting that he seems to be evolving further as a pitcher. However, there’s still a touch of suspense as to when exactly he’ll take the mound for Atlanta again—a testament to the careful planning the team is ensuring in managing his recovery. The stakes are high, and so is the anticipation, as we prepare to witness Strider’s comeback on the big stage! LEARN MORE

ATLANTA (AP) — Spencer Strider struck out 13 batters in 5 1/3 innings for Triple-A Gwinnett on Thursday in his second injury rehabilitation start and appears ready to return from elbow surgery to make his Atlanta Braves season debut next week.

Strider allowed three hits, two walks and one earned run against Norfolk, then was removed after 90 pitches, as planned. He struck out his first six batters, had nine strikeouts through three innings and reached 97 mph with his fastball.

“I watched most of it,” Braves manager Brian Snitker said. “Most of it looked really good. … As dominant as he is, it looks like he’s becoming even more of a pitcher.”

Strider last pitched for the Braves on April 5 last year and had internal brace surgery a week later with Texas Rangers physician Dr. Keith Meister. He led the major leagues in 2023 with 20 wins and 285 strikeouts, finishing fourth in NL Cy Young Award voting.

Strider has made three Triple-A rehab starts, allowing two runs in 13 2/3 innings.

“He got back out for the sixth, got his pitches,” Snitker said. “It was exactly what we wanted to happen.”

Snitker did not commit to Strider joining the Braves rotation for his next appearance. He said he wanted to see how Strider felt after the start and his next side session.

“I kind of feel like he’s right where we want him to be before he gets here,” Snitker said.