Braves Get Huge Spencer Strider Injury Update Ahead of NLDS

It looks like the Atlanta Braves' pitching staff is about to get a serious boost.

On Sunday, it was reported that Atlanta is "optimistic" about rookie Spencer Strider returning for the NLDS against the Philadelphia Phillies, which starts on Tuesday.

Spencer Strider Injury Update

This is great news for the Braves, who have been without Strider for the last three weeks. The 23-year-old's stellar rookie season was cut short by an oblique injury, which has sidelined him since Sept. 18.

Strider was one of Atlanta's top starting pitchers before going down, posting an 11-5 record with a 2.67 ERA, a 0.99 WHIP and a 1.83 FIP in 131 2/3 innings this year. He also thrived against the Phillies, going 4-0 with a 1.27 ERA in four appearances against them, making his return even more exciting for Braves fans.

Given Strider's layoff, the team may opt to use him out of the bullpen for this series rather than risk over-extending him. Atlanta already has ample starting pitching with Max Fried, Kyle Wright and Charlie Morton. Still, Strider has the potential to be a difference-maker in a series where the Braves are already -186 favorites on FanDuel Sportsbook's MLB odds.

Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.