Spencer Strider Returns to Mound After 376 Days, Shows Rust in Loss to Blue Jays

For the first time in 376 days, Spencer Strider, regarded as the most unhittable starting pitcher in MLB history, made his long-awaited return to the mound for the Atlanta Braves. The right-hander, who underwent reconstructive elbow surgery over a year ago, took the ball Wednesday afternoon against the Toronto Blue Jays. Strider worked five innings, striking out five but allowing two earned runs in a 3-1 loss. He gave up a home run to Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in the sixth inning, which, along with a walk to Anthony Santander, ended his outing.

In 2022 and 2023, Strider had cemented his place as one of the game’s top strikeout artists, boasting a career 13.5 strikeouts per nine innings — the highest mark in MLB history for a starter with at least 50 starts. His fastball, regularly touching the high-90s, and his devastating slider made him one of the most feared pitchers in the league. Heading into 2024, Strider was poised to contend for the NL Cy Young, but his recovery from elbow surgery delayed his return.

Strider’s comeback was highly anticipated, but it’s clear he’s still working his way back to peak form. After two quick strikeouts to start the game, he threw three pitches to Bo Bichette, using a pair of high heaters and a sharp slider for the strikeout. His fastball averaged 96.9 mph in the first inning, just below his 2023 average of 97.2 mph — a reassuring sign for his future outings.

However, Strider’s velocity gradually dipped throughout the game:

• 1st inning: 96.9 mph

• 2nd inning: 95.4 mph

• 3rd inning: 94.7 mph

• 4th inning: 95.3 mph

• 5th inning: 94.9 mph

• 6th inning: 94.8 mph

While this drop isn’t an immediate cause for concern, it’s something to monitor in the coming weeks. Strider has typically been much more effective when his fastball sits at 96-98 mph, and with a pitch that’s central to his success, any reduction in velocity can impact his performance. His history of pitching through minor injuries, with diminished velocity, hasn’t been kind in those instances, but it’s likely just a matter of time before his velocity returns to full strength, given his impressive work ethic and track record.

Strider pitched well through much of the game, but his lack of command hurt him. His first misstep came in the third inning when he missed an inside pitch to Bo Bichette, allowing a double. Then, two batters later, Guerrero drove in Bichette with a single. In the sixth, Strider left a 3-2 slider up in the zone, and Guerrero crushed it for a 412-foot home run.

Strider expressed frustration after the game, knowing how crucial his performance is for the Braves, who are already struggling early in the season. With the loss of breakout pitcher Reynaldo López for most of the year, Strider’s return could be a key factor in the Braves’ success as they fight to stay competitive.

Despite the loss, Strider’s return was a positive sign for the future, a reminder of just how dominant he can be when fully healthy.

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