2. Spencer Strider Continues Ascent to Braves Ace-Hood
Spencer Strider is on his way to becoming the greatest strikeout pitcher in franchise history. With Max Fried nursing a blister on his finger, Strider assumed the role of Game 1 starter in the NLDS. Nobody seemed worried that Fried wouldn't be available for a Game 1 start because we knew we had Strider ready to go. Strider did not disappoint. While Atlanta lost both of his starts, including the series-clinching Game 4 start, nobody can point a finger at Strider.
Strider pitched 12.2 of the Braves 34.0 innings pitched in the NLDS. He carried the load for Atlanta and he carried it well. The flame thrower struck out 15 hitters over his 12.2 innings and posted a 2.84 ERA. He gave Atlanta a chance to win the game in both of his starts.
He really shined in Game One, pitching seven innings of one-run ball at home. That sort of performance deserved to be rewarded with a win. Last night, he held Philadelphia to three runs over 5.2 innings in an electric Citizen's Bank Park. The young right-hander showed moxie and a dominant fastball.