Atlanta Braves pitcher Spencer Strider is facing some concerns after his recent game against the Arizona Diamondbacks. The 25-year-old right-hander reported elbow discomfort during Friday night’s match, prompting the team to schedule an MRI for Saturday, according to MLB.com’s Mark Bowman.
Strider’s performance on Friday raised eyebrows for a few reasons. Firstly, his fastball velocity was lower than usual, averaging 95.9 mph compared to his typical 97.2 mph. Additionally, he struggled on the mound, giving up five runs on seven hits and three walks in just four innings.
Spencer Strider's night is done in ATL
His line: 4 IP, 7 H, 3 BB, 5 R pic.twitter.com/CIwL7jo9UE
— B/R Walk-Off (@BRWalkoff) April 6, 2024
Despite this setback, Strider has been a standout pitcher in the league over the past few seasons. With a career ERA of 3.37 and impressive stats, including a 115 ERA+ last season, he’s established himself as a key player for the Braves.
If Strider needs time off due to an injury in his elbow, the Braves have several options to fill his spot in the rotation, including young talents like AJ Smith-Shawver and Bryce Elder and experienced pitchers like Dylan Dodd, Allan Winans, and Huascar Ynoa.
Braves manager Brian Snitker announced that Spencer Strider will have an MRI on Friday morning. Strider told the team’s medical staff about his right elbow feeling off after struggling through four innings in Atlanta’s 6-5, 10-inning victory against the D-backs.
“I thought it was just one of those nights, Then he came in and was complaining about his elbow.” Said Snitker
https://twitter.com/TalkinBaseball_/status/1776443362683343046?t=I0GO99xgC2zoppw1I8RfBQ&s=31
Despite Strider’s struggles, the Braves rallied in Friday’s game, scoring runs late to force extra innings and ultimately securing a victory in the 10th inning thanks to Travis d’Arnaud’s clutch hit. The series against the Diamondbacks continues and the Braves will be keeping a close eye on Strider’s condition and adjusting their lineup accordingly.
