NORTH PORT, Fla. — Atlanta Braves pitcher Spencer Strider made a strong comeback in his first Grapefruit League outing since his Tommy John surgery last year, showcasing his skill by striking out six batters in 2 2/3 perfect innings.
During his impressive performance, only two Boston Red Sox players managed to avoid striking out against Strider. David Hamilton grounded out to second base to kick off the game, and Nick Sogard started the third inning by hitting a foul pop-up caught by third baseman Austin Riley.
Strider’s 2022 season was cut short after he recorded a 0-0 record with a 7.00 ERA over just two starting appearances. This followed a stellar 2023 season where he boasted a 20-5 record, a 3.86 ERA, and led the majors with 281 strikeouts in 186 2/3 innings pitched.
His outstanding performances earned him a spot on the National League All-Star team and a fourth-place finish in the Cy Young Award voting in the same year.
At 26 years old, Strider has amassed a career record of 32-10 with a 3.47 ERA and 495 strikeouts over 329 2/3 innings. The Braves recognized his potential and signed him to a significant six-year, $75 million contract in October 2022, after just 33 major league appearances.
