After Spencer Strider needed to go back on the injured list with a hamstring injury almost immediately after returning, the Atlanta Braves have been very cautious with him and clearly don't want to set expectations too high. Strider's rehab progress has had some updates, but they have often been hedged with something like "if he responds well" or "we will see how he feels" before describing next steps. That didn't change with the latest update on his progress, but there is cause for optimism.
On Saturday, it was revealed that Strider was going to throw another bullpen. That combined with Strider's proclamation that he felt great had fans optimistic that he could return to the mound as soon as this week. So far, that option remains on the table, but Strider returning to the rotation this week without a rehab assignment is very much up in the air still.
Strider felt good again yesterday and he believes he would be ready to start a game for Atlanta this week. The team hasn’t decided whether he’ll be activated this week.
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) May 11, 2025
Spencer Strider thinks he is ready to return, but the Braves are not so sure
Strider is certainly saying all the right things. He feels completely healthy and noted on Sunday that receiving PRP injections almost immediately after the injury seems to have helped him get back on the mend quickly. On the surface, a quick return to the mound seems to be possible if not likely, but there are a number of factors to consider.
With no days off until May 19, being able to employ a six-man rotation with Strider in the mix seems like a great idea. However, carrying an extra starter for that stretch could cause problems for the Braves' bullpen especially if Strider can't pitch deep into games. Getting rid of Rafael Montero should be on the table, but the Braves may feel as though giving Strider a rehab start or a bit more time to heal will give them more time to figure out their roster decisions.
Everyone agrees that the Braves need to do what will keep Strider on the field the longest. If they think another week or sending him for a rehab start is called for, so be it. Fans may not like that Strider is out for longer than hoped, but that is better than him hurting himself almost immediately again and this time being out for a lot longer.