Braves pitching coach Jeremy Hefner reveals why Spencer Strider had lackluster 2025 season

The Atlanta Braves are coming off a season that fell far short of expectations. A combination of factors kept them out of the playoffs for the first time in several years. Former manager Brian Snitker decided to retire, and the Braves hired Walt Weiss to take over. They also opted for a younger coaching staff around him.

“‘The recent additions to Walt Weiss' Braves coaching staff bring a much younger dynamic than any Atlanta coaching staff in recent memory. Jeremy Hefner turns 40 in March, while Antoan Richardson is 42. Tony Mansolino and J.P. Martinez are both 43,’” Braves reporter Grant McAuley posted.

During the offseason, the Braves have made necessary moves. However, after 2026, their starting rotation could look very different. Only two current pitchers are under contract beyond the upcoming season.

“‘Beyond Spencer Strider and Spencer Schwellenbach, there are no clear locks for the Atlanta Braves rotation beyond 2026,’” HTHB’s Chase Owens wrote.

Last season, Strider struggled on the mound at times. Coming off a UCL tear, it was assumed that his struggles were injury-related. However, new pitching coach Jeremy Hefner has pinpointed the reason behind Strider’s uneven season.

“‘He said that Spencer Strider dropped his arm slot and was cross-firing in 2025. Hefner is confident they’ll get it back and that Strider is working his tail off. Then said we should expect to see a better version of Spencer Strider in 2026,’” Braves World Wide posted.

Identifying this mechanical issue is a major step for both the Braves and Strider. It may have been a lingering effect from his season-ending injury in 2024. At his best, Strider possesses one of the elite arms in the league.

Hefner’s early work with his pitchers demonstrates his commitment to improving the rotation. For Strider, the focus will be on correcting the mechanical issue and returning to his normal delivery.

More MLB news: