The Braves clubhouse held an air of resignation on Saturday as the news broke about Spencer Strider’s injury earlier that morning.
Atlanta announced that Strider, following surgery by Dr. Keith Meister in Arlington, would miss the remainder of the 2024 season to repair the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow with an internal brace.
Manager Brian Snitker, while not surprised by the news, expressed optimism: “I knew that probably was going to happen, and he should be back stronger than ever. If anybody’s going to overcome something, it’s going to be that kid.”
Strider, 25, had a promising start to the season with a standout Spring Training and his first Opening Day start. However, signs of trouble emerged when he allowed five runs over four innings against the D-backs on April 5. He didn’t disclose the discomfort until after his 88-pitch effort. An MRI on April 6 confirmed the fears, revealing damage to his UCL.
While no return timetable was set, the internal brace procedure offers hope for a swifter recovery compared to Tommy John surgery. Earlier this year, the Red Sox’s Lucas Giolito had a similar procedure, aiming for a return at the beginning of the next season.
Strider’s absence will be felt keenly, given his electrifying performances in just two full big league seasons. He leads with an impressive 483 strikeouts, surpassing even Gerrit Cole’s 479 strikeouts over more innings.
The Braves took a risk signing Strider to a six-year, $75 million deal after his brief stint as a big league starter. His dedication and talent were evident in setting strikeout records and earning a reputation as one of the game’s best starters.
With the rotation gap to fill, the Braves have options. Bryce Elder, starting strong at Triple-A with a 2.61 ERA, presents a seasoned choice with a 3.66 career ERA in the majors.
Top prospect AJ Smith-Shawver, showing promise in the Minors last year, posted a 4.26 ERA in his debut last year. No. 2 prospect Hurston Waldrep, currently in Double-A, and No. 25 prospect Allan Winans, who provided a spot start, offer further depth.
“We have some good options and we’ll just see where we are after different things. It will be kind of a day-to-day thing,” Snitker commented on the team’s approach moving forward.
As the Braves adjust to life without Strider, they’ll rely on their young talent to step up and fill the void left by the talented pitcher’s untimely injury.
