Cobb Reporter

Just one year into his pro career, pitcher Spencer Strider is doing everything he can to be a part of defending champion Atlanta Braves' bullpen.

While Strider started the season as a minor leaguer with the Augusta GreenJackets, he made his way into the major league with the Braves, the MLB reported on their site. Strider's first time pitching with the pros was only a year ago.

"He's got a big arm," Braves manager Brian Snitker told the MLB. "I think the taste he got last year will serve him well. He's an interesting guy."

Due to a recovery from Tommy John surgery, Strider was unable to play during the 2019 season, the MLB reported. Though he returned in 2020, he only managed four starts with Clemson before COVID-19 put an end to the season. Regardless, Strider was drafted by the Braves during the fourth round, then pushed his way through four levels throughout his first season in the minor leagues.

"A year ago, my vision for how I was going to get to the big leagues was a lot different, a lot longer," Strider said. "So to be around camp and these guys as long as I have been, regardless of how anything turns out, it's obviously been very beneficial."

Strider's fastball flew an average of 97.9 mph during his limited time in the big leagues in 2021, the MLB reported. With the roster limit for MLB teams sitting at 28 players during April, Strider may be chosen as a long reliever, closer or sixth starter this season.