Braves ace RHP Strider has UCL damage in elbow
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ATLANTA —
“You never expect these things to be good or just a blip on the screen,” Snitker said, adding UCL injuries that often lead to season-ending Tommy John surgery are a problem across baseball.
The Cleveland Guardians announced Saturday that ace Shane Bieber will have Tommy John surgery, ending his season.
“They’re throwing harder than ever and spinning the ball more than ever,” Snitker said, adding Strider’s long-term prospects remain bright.
“The good news is he’ll get whatever it is fixed and come back and have a really good career,” Snitker said.
Strider was 20-5 in 2023, leading the majors in wins. His 281 strikeouts also were the most in the big leagues.
The right-hander had a 3.86 ERA last season. His ERA is 7.00 after two starts this year.
Snitker said he will wait to announce plans for how he will fill Strider’s spot in the rotation.
“We’re going to get through tonight and see where we’re at,” Snitker said. “There are going to be a lot of variables to get through.”
