Return Timeline
Spencer Strider appears poised to rejoin the Braves’ starting rotation by the end of April, marking a significant milestone just one year after his UCL injury. This timeline hinges on his ability to accumulate enough innings during the concluding phase of Spring Training to demonstrate his readiness for competitive play.
Innings Build-up and Live Batting Practice
In a recent session, Strider completed two simulated innings as part of a live batting practice. During the exercise, he faced batters including second baseman Ozzie Albies and the recovering MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. With another live session scheduled before he is cleared for Grapefruit League games, the limited available innings make it challenging to precisely pinpoint his re-entry into rotation. Fans and team officials alike are cautiously optimistic as they monitor his gradual return to game conditions.
Projected Season Impact
Forecasts suggest that once fully reintegrated, Strider could rank among the top pitchers in the Braves’ rotation. Expectations for his season include a 9-5 record, a 3.20 ERA, 158 strikeouts over 119 innings, a 1.10 WHIP, 2.9 WAR, and a 3.05 FIP. His previous full season featured 32 starts with a 3.86 ERA and a 1.09 WHIP over 186 2/3 innings, where he led in strikeouts and earned recognition through an All-Star appearance and a strong finish in playoff award voting.
Outlook
Strider’s steady recovery adds a valuable dimension to the Braves’ roster, bringing the potential to advance a playoff push. While his return remains subject to completion of controlled innings and further evaluative sessions, the progress seen so far offers a promising glimpse of his ability to regain peak form. As he works his way back into regular play, his evolving performance is set to play a key role in the team’s competitive ambitions.
