Braves’ Spencer Schwellenbach may have helped expose the Phillies’ offense as frauds

Spencer Schwellenbach has become quite the weapon for the Atlanta Braves. He's been especially good against their division rivals from Philadelphia in his rookie season as well.

Schwellenbach has faced the Phillies twice so far in 2024 and he's put them on notice both times. Not only that, he's exposed them a bit as they cannot seem to hit the curveball well at all. His success against them has allowed the Braves an opportunity to zone in on an effective strategy against them.

Over 12.2 innings, Spencer has a 2.13 ERA with three runs allowed on 10 hits with one walk and 15 strikeouts. The Philies also only carry a team average of .213 when facing the Braves this season. So, it seems Spencer was able to open up the pitching staff to a glaring weakness on such a strong team.

Specifically, Kyle Schwarber, Brandon Marsh, Bryce Harper, and Nick Castellanos struggle the most against the curveball. When facing an opponent's curve, their respective averages are .158, .194, .210, and .163.

That explains why Brian Snitker decided to leave Charlie Morton in game one longer than he should have. Brandon Marsh struggles heavily with the curve but he put a good swing on one and the Braves paid for it.

However, that strategy will continue to be employed by Atlanta pitching and other opponents that face Philly the remainder of the season. It would be foolish to not attack them with that pitch if they struggle as heavily as they do.

Philadelphia currently leads the Braves 2-1 in their four-game series. Schwellenbach takes the mound in the series finale and hopes to send Atlanta away from the city of brotherly love with a series split.

He's impressed mightily for Atlanta as indicated by his 3.72 ERA through 87 innings with 18 walks and 102 strikeouts. For a pitcher with such little professional experience, he sure looks like he's made for this.

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