The Atlanta Braves have been struggling out of the gate, and that has a lot to do with the early season woes from the pitching rotation. The same cannot be said about Spencer Strider, who enjoyed yet another strong outing on Friday night against the Brewers. Chris Goforth discussed his performance and how he believes it is past time that the Braves insert him into the rotation.
The Braves opted to go with Jesse Chavez in an "opener" role, but Strider had to come and save the day after the former allowed three hits and two earned runs in the first inning. Strider responded with a herculean effort that was enough to keep the Braves in the game. He went four innings, striking out eight Brewer batters, with numerous pitches eclipsing the 100 miles-per-hour mark. The Braves were then able to get right back into the game courtesy of a Ronald Acuña home run. It was only after Strider left the game that the Brewers were able to take hold of the game.
The 23-year-old's stats thus far in 2022 have been reminiscent of Friday's start. In 16.2 innings out of the bullpen, he boasts a 2.16 ERA, a 1.080 WHIP, 24 strikeouts, nine hits, nine walks, and four earned runs. In his last appearances, he has accounted for 7.2 innings, zero runs, 13 strikeouts, and only five baserunners - one walk and four hits.
Of course, we need a larger sample size before we overreact to anything, but how much more do the Braves need to see before Strider gets his opportunity? Many thought that Friday would be that opportunity, and while it didn't come in the manner those people thought, fans did see what he was capable of.
Strider was in the conversation about potentially making the rotation during the Spring, but it's past time that he gets the nod.
