The Atlanta Braves faced a major setback in 2024 when Spencer Strider’s season was cut short due to elbow surgery to repair UCL damage. As they gear up for the 2025 season, the Braves remain optimistic that Strider will return to the rotation sooner rather than later.
Strider recently took a significant step forward in his recovery, throwing a bullpen session on Tuesday. His progress caught the attention of manager Brian Snitker, who was highly impressed. According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, Snitker noted that “the ball’s coming out good.”
While an official timeline has not been confirmed, the Braves are anticipating Strider’s return by late April. Though he won’t be available for Opening Day, all indications suggest he will rejoin Atlanta early in the season—assuming he avoids any setbacks. If his rehabilitation proceeds without issues, Braves fans won’t have to wait long to see him back on the mound.
Strider’s Return Strengthens an Already Formidable Braves Rotation
Strider’s comeback would be a welcome sight in Atlanta but a nightmare for opposing teams. He was the Braves’ Opening Day starter in 2024, underscoring his importance to the club. That decision was likely an easy one, given his stellar 2023 season.
During 32 games in 2023, Strider led MLB with 20 wins, posting a 3.86 ERA while striking out a league-best 281 batters against just 58 walks. His dominant performance earned him his first All-Star selection. Over his entire 67-game career with the Braves, Strider has compiled a 32-10 record with a 3.47 ERA and an impressive 495/109 K/BB ratio.
Despite the challenges of 2024, Atlanta has not made significant changes to its pitching staff. They still boast reigning Cy Young winner Chris Sale at the top of their rotation and finished the 2024 season with the best team ERA in MLB at 3.49. Adding Strider back into the mix only solidifies the Braves as serious World Series contenders.
If Strider returns in April as expected, he will be available for the majority of the season, providing a major boost to an already dominant Braves roster.
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