Spencer Strider looked like he hasn't missed a day of action during his first spring training outing. Strider's fastball was sitting in the high 90's and overpowered hitters throughout the day. He struck out six Red Sox hitters over two 2/3 innings pitched.
It remains unclear exactly when we can expect to see Strider back with the Braves full-time after undergoing a season-ending elbow surgery in 2024. Monday's outing, however, set the tone for high expectations for whenever he is able to be fully ramped up.
The Braves rotation will be able to compete with any in baseball once Strider returns and if he continues the All-Star path he was on before the injury. Chris Sale will get the nod for Opening Day in 2025 as Strider continues to get ready.