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3w ago

Spencer Strider Returns to Braves, Sets Historic Strikeout Record

Strider pitched five-plus innings in his first MLB start in 376 days, reaching 500 career strikeouts faster than any other starter in history, though the Braves fell 3-1 to the Blue Jays.

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TORONTO, CANADA - APRIL 16: Spencer Strider #99 of the Atlanta Braves pitches in the first inning of their MLB game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre on April 16, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr is doused with sports drink following his team's defeat of the Atlanta Braves in interleague baseball action in Toronto on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jon Blacker
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Overview

  • Spencer Strider made his 2025 season debut after recovering from elbow surgery, allowing two runs and five hits over five-plus innings with five strikeouts on 97 pitches.
  • He became the fastest starting pitcher in MLB history to reach 500 career strikeouts, achieving the milestone in just his 335th inning pitched.
  • Despite Strider's return, the Braves lost 3-1 to the Blue Jays, with Toronto's Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hitting his first home run of the season and Chris Bassitt striking out 10 over five shutout innings.
  • Strider's fastball showed strong velocity, averaging 95 mph and topping out at 98 mph, while his pitch mix has expanded to include a curveball and redesigned changeup.
  • Braves manager Brian Snitker emphasized Strider's importance to the team as they look to improve on a slow 5-13 start to the season.