The Atlanta Braves have managed to bounce back from a rough start to the season and are now back in the playoff conversation. Despite dealing with injuries and inconsistent performances, they’ve fought their way to a 19-20 record—just one win shy of reaching .500.
Much of their progress has come without their top pitcher. The Braves’ ace began the season sidelined as he recovered from Tommy John surgery. Though he returned to make a single start, he was quickly placed back on the injured list with a hamstring strain following an April 16 game against the Toronto Blue Jays. Strider is eligible to be activated this week, but the team is weighing whether to bring him back directly or let him test his recovery in the minors first.
Strider, however, believes he’s ready to return, telling MLB.com’s Mark Bowman, “I feel good to go, but admittedly, I haven’t pitched in three weeks. So, I won’t be shocked if they don’t feel comfortable running me out there. I’ve made my availability known. Beyond that, it’s up to them.”
In his lone appearance against Toronto, Strider showed flashes of his usual form, pitching five innings and allowing two earned runs on five hits with 97 pitches—though some rust was evident.
Getting Strider back in the rotation would be a huge boost for Atlanta. With tough competition in the NL East, including powerhouse teams like the Phillies and Mets, having a healthy and talented roster could make the Braves a serious threat as the season progresses.