Braves' Strider to throw bullpen session Friday

Pitcher could make season debut next week after recovering from oblique injury

Apr. 3, 2026 at 1:07am

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Atlanta Braves pitcher Spencer Strider will throw a bullpen session on Friday as he makes his way back from an oblique injury that landed him on the 15-day injured list to start the season. Braves manager Walt Weiss said Strider, who threw four innings in a spring training game on March 11 before shutting down due to the injury, could make his season debut as soon as next week.

Why it matters

Strider was expected to be a key part of the Braves' starting rotation this season, so his return from injury is crucial for the team's pitching staff and playoff hopes. The Braves will be cautious with Strider's recovery to ensure he is fully healthy before returning to game action.

The details

Strider, who began the season on the 15-day injured list, will throw a bullpen session on Friday in Arizona as the next step in his recovery process. He made two starts and three appearances in Grapefruit League play before deciding to shut down his preseason due to the oblique injury.

  • Strider began the 2026 season on the 15-day injured list.
  • Strider threw four innings against the Rays on March 11 before shutting down his preseason due to the oblique injury.
  • Strider will throw a bullpen session on Friday, April 3, 2026.

The players

Spencer Strider

A starting pitcher for the Atlanta Braves who is recovering from an oblique injury.

Walt Weiss

The manager of the Atlanta Braves.

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What they’re saying

“Strider will throw a bullpen session Friday, a next step for the starting pitcher toward his return from a strained oblique muscle.”

— Walt Weiss, Braves Manager

What’s next

Strider could make his season debut for the Braves as soon as next week if his bullpen session on Friday goes well and he continues to progress in his recovery.

The takeaway

The Braves will be cautious with Strider's return to ensure he is fully healthy, but his ability to throw a bullpen session this week is an encouraging sign that he is nearing a return to the starting rotation.