Braves' Strider throws 3 innings of batting practice working toward return

Injured starter Spencer Strider takes another step in recovery from oblique strain

Apr. 11, 2026 at 9:26pm

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting breaking down a baseball pitcher's throwing motion into sharp, overlapping geometric planes in the Braves' official team colors of navy blue, red, and white.A cubist interpretation of Braves pitcher Spencer Strider's return to the mound, deconstructing his throwing motion into a dynamic geometric composition.Atlanta Today

Atlanta Braves pitcher Spencer Strider threw three innings of batting practice at Truist Park on Saturday as he continues his recovery from a Grade 1 left oblique strain. Braves manager Walt Weiss said Strider felt good after the session and will likely make a rehab start on Thursday, throwing 40-45 pitches. Weiss does not expect Strider to rejoin the Braves' rotation before the end of April.

Why it matters

The Braves have been without two projected starters in Strider and Spencer Schwellenbach, yet the team still leads the NL East with a 9-5 record and has had seven quality starts in their first 14 games. Strider's return will be a boost to the Braves' pitching staff as they look to maintain their division lead.

The details

Strider hit 95 mph during his three innings of batting practice, with Weiss noting that the right-hander did not have any adrenaline for the session. Strider was in full Braves uniform, including the team's new City Connect outfit. Weiss said all signs are pointing in the right direction for Strider's recovery, both physically and mentally.

  • Strider has been on the injured list since March 22 with a Grade 1 left oblique strain.
  • Strider will likely make a rehab start on Thursday and throw 40-45 pitches.
  • Weiss does not anticipate Strider rejoining the Braves before the end of the month.

The players

Spencer Strider

A 27-year-old right-handed pitcher for the Atlanta Braves who has been on the injured list since March 22 with a Grade 1 left oblique strain.

Walt Weiss

The manager of the Atlanta Braves.

Spencer Schwellenbach

A projected starter for the Atlanta Braves who is also currently injured and missing from the team's rotation.

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What they’re saying

“He's on the right path. With starters, it takes time. We've got to build him back up now.”

— Walt Weiss, Braves Manager

“That's no adrenaline, right? I don't think he had adrenaline for BP, but you never know with Strider. All signs are pointing in the right direction. Physically where he's at, mentally, emotionally, he's handled this very well. All things point the right way.”

— Walt Weiss, Braves Manager

What’s next

Strider will likely make a rehab start on Thursday and throw 40-45 pitches as he continues his recovery.

The takeaway

Despite missing two projected starters in Strider and Schwellenbach, the Braves have maintained their lead in the NL East division. Strider's return will be a welcome boost to the team's pitching staff as they look to solidify their position atop the division.