Prior to tonight’s game, Atlanta Braves manager Brian Sniker provided updates to reporters on the timetable for the return of injured starting pitcher Spencer Strider and catcher Sean Murphy.
Strider, who missed most of last season after having a brace procedure on his elbow, threw 75 pitches for Gwinnett last night, striking out eight without allowing a hit. Murphy, fractured a rib after being hit by a pitch in Spring Training caught Strider’s start and has been playing regularly for the Stripers.
Murphy looks likely to return to Atlanta for Tuesday’s series opener against the Philadelphia Phillies. Strider will make at least one more start in Triple-A, pitching at Norfolk next week.
Snit just met with media and said Strider will likely pitch for Gwinnett in Norfolk Thursday and Murphy is slated to catch nine innings for Gwinnett tomorrow.
Saw both of them in the #Braves clubhouse a few minutes ago.
— Rick Farlow (@FarlowRick) April 5, 2025
Murphy is going to catch nine inning – weather permitting – on Sunday.
Murphy is scheduled to play nine innings for Gwinnett tomorrow. If all goes well, he could be activated Tuesday
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) April 5, 2025
As for Strider, the goal will be for him to toss 90 pitches, with the team will make a determination of his return to Atlanta.
#Braves Spencer Strider’s next start is Thursday for Gwinnett, on the road against Norfolk. It will be his third rehab appearance.
Brian Snitker said the goal is to add another 15 or so pitches (upping to 90 total).
— Grant McAuley (@grantmcauley) April 5, 2025
Injured outfielder Ronald Acuña, Jr. is expected to be out until at least mid-May, but with Strider and Murphy soon to join the big league squad, the Braves will be two steps closer to full-strength.