Spencer Strider steps into bigger role following injuries to Braves starters

Spencer Strider, who pitched for Clemson from 2018 - 2020, is now at the top of Atlanta's rotation following injuries.

Spencer Strider has become one of the biggest names in baseball. The flamethrower for the Atlanta Braves has followed up a historic rookie season by dominating Major League Baseball early in the 2023 season. Strider is currently averaging a whopping 15.7 strikeouts per 9 innings and is 4-0 through 7 starts. Now, following injuries to Max Fried and Kyle Wright, Strider will have to step up even more for the Braves.

Earlier this week, the Braves had to shut down both Max Friend and Kyle Wright with forearm strains. Each starting pitcher is expected to miss at least a couple of months. That leaves the Braves with Strider and veteran Charlie Morton at the top of the rotation. 

Spencer Strider during his time at Clemson. (Clemson Athletics)

If his career trajectory is any sort of indication, Strider should be more than ready for the role. Last year, he became the fastest player in MLB history to throw 200 strikeouts in a single season. He also became the first Atlanta Brave to fan that many batters in a season. He finished second in the NL Rookie of the Year voting to his teammate, Michael Harris Jr.

During his time at Clemson, Strider was named to the All-ACC Freshmen team after accumulating a 5-2 record over 22 appearances with 70 strikeouts. 

In 63.0 innings pitched over 26 appearances (10 starts) and two active seasons, he had a 5-2 record, one save and a 4.71 ERA while allowing 53 hits (.226 opponents’ batting average) and 38 walks with 89 strikeouts. - Clemson Athletics