ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 05: Spencer Strider #99 of the Atlanta Braves returns to the dugout in the first inning during the game between the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park on Friday, April 5, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/MLB Photos via Getty Images)
Atlanta Braves fans are anxiously awaiting news about the future of Spencer Strider, who has recently suffered an injury to the UCL in his right elbow. The uncertainty surrounding Strider’s condition is compounded by Max Fried’s struggles at the start of the season, adding to fans’ concerns.
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Strider sought medical advice from Dr. Keith Meister in Dallas, Texas on Monday to assess the extent of the injury and determine the appropriate course of treatment. The possibility of undergoing Tommy John surgery looms, although there is also a bracing procedure that offers a shorter recovery time, albeit still sidelining Strider for the season.
Regardless of the treatment decision, it’s clear that the Braves will be without their top pitcher for the entirety of the 2024 season. Fans, however, are left in the dark as no official update has been provided following Strider’s visit to the doctor. According to Braves insider and MLB.com’s Mark Bowman, the team does not intend to release any updates until the weekend, leaving fans in suspense until then.
The uncertainty surrounding Spencer Strider’s injury leaves fans grappling with various possibilities. Will he undergo Tommy John surgery, sidelining him until at least next summer? Could he opt for a different surgical procedure that allows for a quicker return in the 2025 season? Or is there a chance he may not require surgery at all?
While the likelihood of forgoing surgery seems slim, the Braves have yet to provide clarity on the situation. Braves insider Mark Bowman suggests that the team likely has a grasp of Strider’s condition and is awaiting confirmation of the necessary surgical procedure. Dr. Meister, consulted by Strider, has not ruled out the possibility of Tommy John surgery, indicating that both parties are weighing their options carefully.
The Braves’ tendency to withhold announcements until all details are known further contributes to the suspense surrounding Strider’s injury. It’s a disappointing turn of events, particularly as Strider appeared poised for a standout season. Nonetheless, the priority is ensuring Strider’s full recovery and readiness for the 2025 season.
Having previously undergone Tommy John surgery in 2019 during college, Strider’s resilience is evident. While the outcome of surgery remains uncertain, fans can expect updates from House That Hank Built as developments unfold.
