The Atlanta Braves battled through a wave of injuries in 2024, losing key players like Ronald Acuña Jr., Ozzie Albies, and Austin Riley for significant stretches. Their rotation took a major hit when ace Spencer Strider was sidelined after just two starts due to an elbow injury. Now, after an extensive rehab process, Strider is finally ready to take the mound again in a Braves spring training game, with the team hoping for a stroke of luck on St. Patrick’s Day.
“When the Braves face Boston on Monday, all eyes will be on ATL’s Spencer Strider, who’ll start his first game in 11 1/2 months,” reported The Athletic’s Dave O’Brien. “A damaged UCL in his pitching elbow limited the 2023 MLB strikeouts and wins leader to just two starts in 2024 before undergoing internal-brace surgery.”
The highly anticipated return will take place at the Braves’ spring training facility in Venice, Florida, marking Strider’s first start since a disastrous April 5 outing against the Arizona Diamondbacks one that ultimately ended his season. While this start doesn’t guarantee he’ll be ready for Opening Day, it’s an encouraging step toward a full recovery.
Strider’s Return is Crucial for the Braves in 2025
With Strider out last season, the pressure fell on Max Fried. Though Fried was solid, it was veteran Chris Sale who stole the spotlight, earning his first career Cy Young Award. Now, with Fried signing a record deal with the Yankees, the Braves will lean heavily on both Sale and Strider to anchor the rotation.
Strider’s dominance in 2023 set sky-high expectations he led the league with 20 wins and 281 strikeouts, finishing fourth in NL Cy Young voting. If he can return to that form, the Braves could boast one of the top rotations in the National League.
Meanwhile, Atlanta is also awaiting the return of another superstar. Ronald Acuña Jr., who suffered his second career ACL tear last May, is working his way back. Given his history he didn’t return to MVP form until two years after his first ACL injury the Braves will be cautious with expectations.
The National League East is shaping up to be more competitive than ever, especially with the Mets adding superstar slugger Juan Soto to their roster. However, if Strider can return to peak performance, Atlanta’s chances of reclaiming the division crown will be significantly stronger.
