The defending World Series champion Atlanta Braves have been without one of their two aces in Spencer Strider for the past week.
Strider was out with an oblique issue that caused him to land on the 15-Day Injured List ahead of a key series against the New York Mets.
Strider has been activated for the NLDS and is on the roster, but the Braves have not many any decisions yet on how to use him going forward.
Manager Brian Snitker said that Strider threw a side session today and looked good, but that he hasn’t made any decisions on who will start Game 3 in Philadelphia.
Bryan Snitker said Spencer Strider came throwing his side throwing session fine but no decision has been made on a Game 3 starter.
— Jeff Schultz (@JeffSchultzATL) October 12, 2022
Strider’s Status Uncertain For NLDS
With Kyle Wright starting Game 2 this afternoon, one would expect that Strider would get the ball in Game 3.
But as Snitker stated, a decision has not been made yet on who will get the start.
It’s possible that Charlie Morton, an experienced postseason veteran, could get the ball for the Braves when the series shifts to Philadelphia.
Another candidate might be veteran right-hander Jake Odorizzi.
If Strider doesn’t start either of the two games in Philadelphia, then it’s very likely that Odorizzi and Morton will be the ones to start those games, with Strider being used primarily in relief.
At the very least, Strider is active and on the roster for the Braves this series, and as Snitker stated, his side session was a success.
It’s also possible that Strider could be saved to start a potential Game 5 back in Atlanta if they want to give him the proper rest leading up to his next appearance.
For now, there is no clear direction on what the Braves will do with Strider.
NEXT: Braves Catcher Comments On The Game 1 Starter