Braves Lose Starter Strider to Injury as Season Begins

Promising young pitcher Spencer Strider to start season on IL with oblique strain

Apr. 15, 2026 at 1:44pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a baseball pitcher's motion broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in navy, green, and orange, conveying the disruption caused by Strider's injury to the Braves' pitching staff.The Braves' rotation takes a hit as young ace Spencer Strider begins the season on the injured list.Atlanta Today

The Atlanta Braves will be without one of their top starting pitchers, Spencer Strider, to start the 2026 MLB season. Strider was diagnosed with an oblique injury and will begin the year on the injured list, dealing another blow to the Braves' starting rotation.

Why it matters

Strider was expected to be a key part of the Braves' rotation this season after a promising rookie campaign in 2025. His absence creates a hole that the team will need to fill, potentially leading to roster moves or changes to the starting staff.

The details

Strider, a 24-year-old right-hander, suffered the oblique strain during spring training and will need to complete a rehab assignment before rejoining the Braves. The team has not provided a timeline for his return, but oblique injuries can often sideline pitchers for 4-6 weeks.

  • Strider was diagnosed with the oblique injury during spring training in March 2026.
  • He will begin a rehab assignment to work his way back to the Braves' active roster.

The players

Spencer Strider

A 24-year-old right-handed starting pitcher for the Atlanta Braves who is sidelined to start the 2026 season with an oblique injury.

Atlanta Braves

The Major League Baseball team based in Atlanta, Georgia that will be without one of their top young starters to begin the 2026 season.

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What’s next

The Braves will need to determine how to fill Strider's spot in the rotation while he completes his rehab assignment. They may look to promote a prospect or sign a free agent in the meantime.

The takeaway

Strider's injury is a setback for the Braves, who were counting on the young pitcher to be a key part of their rotation this season. His absence will test the team's depth and force them to adjust their plans for the start of the year.