Spencer Strider's oblique strain delays Braves' 2026 season opener
Atlanta Braves pitcher Spencer Strider will begin the 2026 season on the injured list due to an oblique strain. The setback marks another challenge in his career, which has been repeatedly disrupted by injuries. Originally set to start the spring training finale against Pittsburgh, he was pulled from the lineup at the last moment.
Strider had shown progress in spring training, posting a 3.24 ERA over 8 1/3 innings with two wins. But his recovery from a 2024 hamstring issue and now this latest injury have delayed his return to full strength.
Strider's 2026 spring training was limited to backfield sessions as he gradually rebuilt velocity, reaching the mid-96s mph. His pitch metrics remained strong, including an induced vertical break of 19.1 inches. However, the oblique strain has pushed his expected return to mid-April, leaving his early-season impact uncertain.
His 2024 campaign ended with a disappointing 7-14 record and a 4.45 ERA across 23 starts. Now, with his health still in question, the Braves face additional pitching concerns. Starters Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep are already on the 60-day injured list after undergoing elbow surgery.
Meanwhile, another Braves pitcher, Didier Fuentes, has impressed in spring training. The 23-year-old threw a no-hitter over nine innings, retiring 26 of 27 batters while hitting 97-99 mph on his fastball. His gyro slider has drawn comparisons to Strider's signature pitch, mirroring Strider's own breakout in 2022 when he transitioned from reliever to starter. Fuentes' performance has put him in contention for an early-season roster spot.
Manager Walt Weiss remains optimistic about Strider's recovery, suggesting he may miss only a couple of weeks. But with betting markets setting Strider's strikeout over/under at 168.5, his fitness will be crucial to meeting those expectations.
Strider's latest injury adds to the Braves' pitching woes, with three key starters now sidelined. His return timeline remains uncertain, though the team hopes for a mid-April comeback. In his absence, younger pitchers like Fuentes may step into larger roles as the season begins. Strider's ability to regain form will determine whether he can surpass last year's struggles and meet the high expectations set for his strikeout totals.
