Spencer Strider

Sidelined since June 13 with right elbow inflammation, Strider completed a four-week throwing shutdown after consulting Dr. Keith Meister. The Braves still have not established a return timetable and are not expecting him to pitch again in 2026. MRI showed no ligament damage, but recovery has extended well beyond initial projections.

Strider was transferred from the 15-day to the 60-day IL with right elbow inflammation after being shut down from throwing for at least four weeks. A follow-up MRI in mid-July will determine next steps; if the scan is clean, a throwing program could begin around the All-Star break. A late-August return is best case; early September is more realistic. Atlanta added Carlos Carrasco to the 40-man roster as the corresponding move.

First rehab start Thursday at High-A Rome: 3.1 IP, 0 ER, 3 K on 50 pitches. Fastball sat 95-97 mph. Braves targeting an early May return. The measured approach (pulled after 3.1 IP despite dominance) suggests they won't rush him.

Strider's triumphant return — velocity back at pre-injury level, slider's bite intact. If somehow on your wire (9% of leagues), this is the priority claim above all others. Top-15 SP rest of season ceiling. Some managers will have dropped him during the IL stint — pounce.

Started @ Boston Red Sox (2W-0L, 3.00 ERA)

Started @ Miami Marlins (1W-0L, 2.45 ERA)

Started vs Boston Red Sox (1W-0L, 2.89 ERA)

Started @ Los Angeles Dodgers (0W-0L, 8.10 ERA)

Started @ Colorado Rockies (0W-0L, -.-- ERA)