The Atlanta Braves are anticipating key reinforcements in the coming weeks, with a clearer timeline emerging for their injured stars. While president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos has kept exact return dates under wraps, sources including MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, indicate that right-hander Spencer Strider is tracking toward a late April return to the rotation. Strider has been progressing in his recovery from an elbow injury, putting him on course to rejoin Atlanta’s pitching staff within the first month of the season.
Spencer Strider Progressing Toward Late April Return
Strider, who underwent surgery to repair his UCL last April, could throw in a Grapefruit League game before spring training is over. He’s likely to begin a 30-day minor league rehab assignment when the season opens. Outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. is taking part in most baseball activities, but isn’t cleared to play in games. Acuna too will do a rehab assignment once that happens, opening a 20-day window for him to return.
“The fact that they’re very active participants basically throughout the spring is a good sign,” Anthopolous said. “Without having a date right now, we’re definitely on the shorter end, Strider more so than Ronald.”
Strider went 20-5 with a 3.86 ERA over 186 2/3 innings in 2023, finishing fourth in National League Cy Young voting. In 2022, he posted an 11-5 record with a 2.67 ERA over 131 2/3 innings, placing second in NL Rookie of the Year voting behind teammate Michael Harris II.
Acuña’s résumé includes the 2018 NL Rookie of the Year award, the 2023 NL MVP, and four All-Star selections. However, he has also suffered two torn ACLs—one in each knee—since 2021.
After a lengthy rehab process, it would be natural for them to push for an early return. However, that hasn’t been the case, as the All-Star duo recognizes their importance to the Braves over the full 162-game season.
Main Photo: © Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
