Braves' Strider Nears Return to Rotation After Injury

Injured starter Spencer Strider takes major step in recovery, raising hopes for Braves' pitching staff.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 2:58am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a baseball pitcher's throwing motion broken down into overlapping geometric shapes and planes in the Braves' team colors of navy blue, red, and white.Strider's return could provide a much-needed boost to the Braves' pitching staff as they look to maintain their lead in the NL East.Atlanta Today

Atlanta Braves pitcher Spencer Strider is inching closer to a return to the team's starting rotation after throwing three innings of batting practice at Truist Park. Strider, who has been sidelined with a Grade 1 left oblique strain, hit 95 mph during the practice session, a promising sign in his recovery process. The Braves have managed to maintain a lead in the NL East despite Strider's absence and the injury to another projected starter, Spencer Schwellenbach, highlighting the team's pitching depth. However, Strider's return could provide a significant boost to the Braves' rotation and their chances of success in the competitive division.

Why it matters

Strider's recovery is crucial for the Braves, as the team looks to maintain its lead in the NL East and make a deep playoff run. The young pitcher's return could provide a much-needed boost to the team's pitching staff and potentially impact the Braves' overall performance and morale.

The details

Strider, who suffered a Grade 1 left oblique strain, took a significant step in his rehabilitation by throwing three innings of batting practice at Truist Park. During the session, the right-hander hit 95 mph, a promising sign that he is regaining his form and strength. The Braves have managed to maintain a 9-5 record and a lead in the NL East despite Strider's absence and the injury to another projected starter, Spencer Schwellenbach. This speaks to the depth of the Braves' pitching staff, but Strider's return could provide a much-needed boost to the rotation.

  • On Saturday, Strider threw three innings of batting practice at Truist Park.
  • The Braves have led the NL East at 9-5 in the first 14 games of the season.

The players

Spencer Strider

A right-handed pitcher for the Atlanta Braves who is recovering from a Grade 1 left oblique strain.

Spencer Schwellenbach

A projected starting pitcher for the Atlanta Braves who is also currently on the injured list.

Walt Weiss

The manager of the Atlanta Braves.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

What’s next

The Braves' manager, Walt Weiss, doesn't anticipate Strider rejoining the team before the end of the month, but this is a conservative estimate. Given Strider's progress and the importance of his role in the rotation, it's likely that he'll be back sooner than expected.

The takeaway

Strider's recovery is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of patience in sports. His return could provide a significant boost to the Braves' pitching staff and their chances of success in the competitive NL East.