Spencer Strider is another step closer to returning to Atlanta's rotation as the starter is scheduled to make a rehab appearance. Strider will start Saturday's Gwinnett Stripers game in what has been an impressive rehab from the Braves ace. This isn't the first time Strider has been back on the mound for the Braves, with the starter managing to make two starts at the end of spring training. The spring debut left no questions about the pitcher's ability in a dominating return.
Now it is simply a waiting game of Strider getting the needed reps to stretch out.
Atlanta fans aren't going to be entirely patient considering how Opening Day played out. It pointed out a glaring need for the Braves to rely on their starting rotation. A leaky bullpen needs the help of Craig Kimbrel and current starter Grant Holmes to have any hope of being capable. The return of Strider will go a long way in patching the team's biggest current concern.
The return of the Quadzilla.
— Gwinnett Stripers (@GoStripers) March 28, 2025
2023 #Braves All-Star RHP Spencer Strider is scheduled to rehab with Gwinnett in Charlotte tomorrow, presented by @NorthsideHosp.
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Atlanta is not only awaiting the return of Spencer Strider but also 2023 MVP Ronald Acuna Jr. as well as potential bullpen reinforcements. The Braves are far from a complete roster and still have a myriad of reasons for optimism.
Strider's last regular-season appearance was on April 5th, 2024, when the starter struggled and would later complain of elbow discomfort. This led to a season-ending injury that would require surgery and leave Strider's ceiling in question. Already those questions were answered in spring training with the starter showing full confidence in all of his pitches and the same level of velocity Atlanta fans have grown accustomed to seeing.
Strider getting a start this weekend is another huge step in the right direction as Atlanta works to stretch out the pitch count. While it remains in question when Strider will return, it is safe to assume Atlanta won't keep the starter in the minors for any longer than deemed necessary. Going off the two starts in spring, two rehab appearances should be enough to plug Strider back into the rotation with a limited pitch count.
This potentially gives Atlanta back both their ace and starting catcher, Sean Murphy, in the first two weeks of the season.