Braves’ Spencer Strider shares insight on his peculiar elbow issue

Spencer Strider spoke with media on Friday about his elbow injury, which turned out to be very uncommon.

Strider had surgery a week ago to repair the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his right elbow. The Atlanta Braves ace avoided Tommy John surgery, but he did have an internal brace installed, which will keep him out for the season.

The injury’s peculiarity stems from the circumstances surrounding its development.

Strider told reporters that a bone fragment formed in his UCL sometime after his 2019 Tommy John surgery. The fragment broke free, causing his ligament to deteriorate. His ligament was strong enough to withstand the bracing treatment.

Just heard from #Braves Spencer Strider, who provided clarity on issue in his elbow. A bone fragment formed in his UCL, ultimately broke loose, causing weakness in his ligament. Fortunately, the ligament was fine and led to the UCL bracing procedure. There was no need for TJ.

— Grant McAuley (@grantmcauley) April 19, 2024

Strider was informed that there was probably nothing he could have done to avoid the surgery.

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

The 25-year-old Strider has been an ace for Atlanta for the past two years. Last season, he finished 20-5, striking out 281 in 186.2 innings. His win and strikeout totals lead the league.

Strider said he feels the Braves can win the World Series without him. Atlanta opened play on Friday with a 12-5 record, the best in the MLB.