Addressing the epidemic of pitching injuries in baseball is a complex task, as the root causes remain a topic of debate. While some attribute the rise in injuries to factors like the pitch clock or the ban on sticky substances, many agree that the emphasis on velocity plays a role.
Last season, more than half of the top 15 pitchers with the highest average fastball velocities found themselves on the injured list (IL), with some facing season-ending injuries like Spencer Strider. Today, new information emerged about Strider’s early-season setback: a bone fragment in his UCL, potentially present for years, proved to be a hidden threat.
Strider had a bone fragment in his UCL. He was told it was likely there even before the 2022 season. He had some discomfort in March, but thought he might be fine after his breaking ball was so good on Opening Day. This was likely something he couldn’t have prevented.
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) April 19, 2024
Despite feeling some soreness during Spring Training, Strider chose to push through, hoping it was merely a temporary setback. Unfortunately, his situation worsened, leading to his absence from the mound.
Spencer Strider said he had been dealing with elbow discomfort since the spring. His results and velocity were great, so he "pushed away those apocalyptic thoughts in my mind that something was really wrong."
— Justin Toscano (@JustinCToscano) April 19, 2024
Losing a top pitcher like Strider could derail many teams, but the Braves have shown resilience. Despite injuries to key players like Strider, Sean Murphy, and Ozzie Albies, the team maintains the best record in baseball at 12-5, demonstrating the depth and strength of their roster. As Strider himself acknowledged, the Braves possess the talent and depth to chase a World Series title, even in his absence.