Atlanta’s top pitcher, Spencer Strider, who led the league in wins and strikeouts last season, is undergoing tests on his right elbow due to discomfort he experienced during Friday’s game.
Strider had a tough outing, allowing five runs in four innings with control issues, including three walks, in the Braves’ 6-5 win over Arizona.
Braves manager Brian Snitker mentioned that Strider expressed discomfort in his elbow during the game, which was later confirmed after he exited.
Losing Strider could be a significant blow to the Braves’ pitching staff, as he was chosen as the team’s top starter for the season.
Last season, Strider had an impressive record of 20 wins and led the league in strikeouts, but this year, his performance has been less consistent with a higher ERA.
In case Strider needs to miss games, potential replacements in the rotation could be Bryce Elder and A.J. Smith-Shawver, both of whom have shown promise in the past. Elder particularly had a strong season last year, earning an All-Star nod in the NL.
