Braves’ Spencer Strider reflects on struggles after ‘batting practice’ start

Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Spencer Strider (99) in action against the Philadelphia Phillies.Atlanta Braves ace Spencer Strider didn’t mince words after another rough outing Tuesday night against the Arizona Diamondbacks, admitting his command issues made it feel like he was throwing “batting practice.” The Braves have now dropped nine of their last 12 games, and Strider’s regression has become a central concern for a team once seen as a clear contender.

Strider, who allowed five earned runs over five innings, gave up three home runs—two to Ketel Marte and one to Corbin Carroll—in an 8–3 loss at Truist Park. It was another chapter in a challenging 2025 campaign for the right-hander,…