Spencer Strider returns from surgery Monday for Braves

Atlanta Braves pitcher Spencer Strider will return to play on Monday after recovering from Tommy John surgery. He had a torn UCL and missed the entire 2024 season after making only two starts. Strider's absence affected the Braves' starting rotation last season. Despite this, Chris Sale won the National League Cy Young award, and top prospect AJ Smith-Shawver has shown promise in spring training. Strider is expected to pitch one or two innings in his return. This will be his first game in nearly a year, and he may need time to regain his previous form.