Spencer Strider Leaves Game After Concerning Drop in Fastball Velocity

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 12: Spencer Strider #99 of the Atlanta Braves delivers a pitch during the first inning against the New York Mets at Citi Field. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)

The Atlanta Braves faced a challenging night against the New York Mets in the first match of their weekend series, compounded by the troubling exit of pitcher Spencer Strider. Strider left the game with trainer George Poulis after displaying a troubling decrease in his pitching speed.

Strider’s fastball velocity plummeted to around 88 mph, a stark contrast to his season average of 95 mph. After struggling through three innings, during which he allowed six runs—including home runs from Bo Bichette and Juan Soto—Strider was visited by coaches Walt Weiss and Poulis on the mound. Following their discussions, a visibly upset Strider consented to leave the game due to the alarming issues he was experiencing.

As Strider's fastball velocity continued to dip into the 87-88 mph range, concerns mounted among fans and teammates alike. The Braves will be monitoring the situation closely, hoping for positive news regarding Strider's condition. Stay tuned for further updates as they become available.