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The Atlanta Braves did not have a kind Spring Training when it came to their rotation. However, they made the best of the situation. One concerning issue was that several starters saw a drop in velocity.
“I've noticed a lot of Braves starters aren't throwing as hard as usual in spring, even Chris Sale. (Grant Holmes is the exception here). I'm starting to think this is intentional, but it's truly an unknown right now and I'm sure many folks will be worried until they show the gas,” Braves Today’s Lindsay Crosby wrote.
During Spring Training, the Braves faced major questions surrounding their starting rotation after losing Hurston Waldrep, Spencer Schwellenbach, and Joey Wentz. To make matters worse, just a few days before the start of the regular season, Spencer Strider was placed on the injured list with an oblique injury.
“In the latest blow to the Atlanta Braves' starting rotation, right-hander Spencer Strider will begin the season on the injured list after being diagnosed with an oblique strain, manager Walt Weiss told reporters Monday. Strider had been scheduled to start in Monday's spring training finale against Pittsburgh before being scratched,” ESPN wrote.
With Strider’s injury, it was not expected to be a lengthy recovery process. Over the weekend, Braves manager Walt Weiss provided a clearer timeline for his return.
“Walt Weiss said a rehab assignment is next for Strider. He thinks it’ll take the rest of the month to get him conditioned. April 16 is the target date for his first start,” Harrison Smajovitts wrote.
If all goes well, it appears the Braves expect Strider back at the beginning of May, which would be a major boost for Atlanta. Strider has been highly effective for the Braves when healthy.
The key for Strider will be staying healthy, something that has been challenging since his elbow injury a couple of seasons ago. When he is at full strength, he significantly improves the team and adds much-needed depth to the rotation.
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