Spencer Strider sidelined again with hamstring strain after brief return

In April 2025, Atlanta Braves pitcher Spencer Strider suffered a right hamstring strain while playing catch, leading to his placement on the 15-day injured list. This decision was made retroactively to Friday, just days after his return to the field following elbow surgery. Strider had returned to make his first major league appearance since April 2024, where he performed well by pitching five innings and allowing two runs against Toronto. His comeback was highly anticipated, especially since he was a standout performer in 2023, finishing fourth in NL Cy Young Award voting and being named an All-Star with an impressive record of 20 wins and 281 strikeouts. Strider's unexpected injury occurred as the Braves were looking to bolster their pitching rotation, which was already struggling with injuries and lackluster performances. Alongside Strider, Reynaldo López had recently undergone arthroscopic shoulder surgery, further compromising the team's strength. The Braves opened the season poorly, with a series of losses, and expected Strider's presence to reinvigorate their chances for success. His absence places additional pressure on the remaining pitchers, including Chris Sale and Bryce Elder, who had not met performance expectations early in the season. The Braves' management had to consider alternatives, as Strider's absence for at least two weeks would further challenge the team's pitching depth. Prospective replacements from Triple-A Gwinnett could step in, but they lacked experience at the major league level. The current pitching staff was already seen as shaky, with several of their most effective pitchers sidelined by injury, requiring the Braves to act quickly to find solutions if they were to turn around their struggling start to the season. Financial constraints have complicated the Braves' efforts to secure the necessary pitching depth, as the organization has often refrained from providing long-term contracts for pitchers due to past injury risks. Strider, who signed a six-year contract after the 2022 season, represents a significant investment for the team, one that they hope will pay off in the long run if he can remain healthy. With the season still young and ample games remaining, the Braves' ability to navigate the injured list effectively will be key to their success as they aim to recover from their shaky beginning and compete for the division title.