Concerns arose for Spencer Strider’s performance on Friday night, with Braves Manager Brian Snitker announcing an MRI for him on Saturday morning. Strider shared his right elbow discomfort with the medical staff after a challenging four innings in Atlanta’s 6-5 win over the D-backs.

“I thought it was just one of those nights,” Snitker mentioned. “Then he came in and was complaining about his elbow.”

Both Snitker and Matt Olson, among others, were unaware of Strider’s ailment until after the game. It was evident that the usually strong pitcher struggled in front of a full crowd during Atlanta’s home opener.

During the game, Strider conceded five runs and seven hits in just four innings, with four strikeouts and three walks. This marked the eighth time in 54 starts that he hasn’t gone beyond four innings, and the sixth time without five strikeouts as a starter.

Strider to undergo MRI after abbreviated 4-inning outing

Strider, known for his impressive strikeout record, held the MLB’s top spot with 483 strikeouts in the last two years. However, in Friday’s game, he only induced 12 swings and missed out on 88 pitches, one of his lowest totals in 80+ pitch outings.

The D-backs managed just four swings and misses out of 27 against Strider’s fastball, which appeared less lively than usual. Last year, opponents missed 28.7% of their swings against his fastball.

Strider’s fastball averaged 95.9 mph on Friday, slightly lower than the 96.7 mph in his season debut last week and the 97.2 mph over the 2023 season.

Even with hopes for positive MRI results, the Braves may choose to rest Strider for a few weeks. They have options in Triple-A Gwinnett, with Dylan Dodd available to fill Strider’s spot against the Mets on Wednesday if needed.