Spencer Strider, the Braves’ right-handed pitcher, is starting the season on the injured list because of an oblique strain. Manager Walt Weiss shared this news with reporters earlier today. While the team hasn’t given a specific timeline for his recovery, even a mild strain can keep players out for about a month.
At 27, Strider faced challenges last season. After only two starts in 2024, he had to undergo UCL surgery, which means he won’t return until 2025 at the earliest. His difficulties continued with a hamstring injury, limiting him to just 23 starts in the previous season. He pitched 125 and a third innings, but with a drop in velocity, he ended up with a 4.45 ERA, significantly lower than his performance before the injuries.
Many fans hoped to see Strider back on the mound, more like the standout player he was in 2022-23. However, this setback adds to the list of Braves players who will miss the start of the season. They’ve also lost Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep for months due to elbow surgeries. Joey Wentz is out for the entire season after tearing his ACL, and shortstop Ha-Seong Kim suffered a hand injury before camp even started. Additionally, Jurickson Profar has been suspended for the whole season after a second positive drug test.
The Braves’ pitching lineup is now pretty thin. Alongside Strider’s absence, Chris Sale, Reynaldo Lopez, and Grant Holmes will serve as the top three starters. Lopez barely pitched last year due to shoulder surgery, while Holmes had a UCL tear last summer. The plan for the rest of the rotation remains uncertain.
Bryce Elder and José Suarez will likely make the roster since they’re out of minor league options, but either may end up in the bullpen. Reports suggest that Suarez could start this season, and there’s also mention of veteran Martín Pérez potentially joining the team despite initially being informed he wouldn’t make the club.
With such a fragile rotation, it wouldn’t be surprising if Braves’ president Alex Anthopoulos seeks additional help. The last days of training camp often see various veterans opting out or being released, allowing for opportunities to acquire some much-needed pitching depth.
Expert opinions on injuries in baseball highlight the importance of managing player health. According to Dr. David Altchek, a sports medicine specialist, “Oblique injuries are tricky. They can linger and affect overall performance.” This serves as a reminder of how crucial it is to balance recovery with competitive readiness.
With the Braves facing these challenges, it’s clear that the start of the season will be tough. Fans are eager to see how the team adapts and whether any last-minute roster changes will help strengthen their rotation.
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