Cobb Reporter

Atlanta Braves longtime reliever Spencer Strider showed “flashes of dominance” during his first career start May 30, according to a report by MLB.com.

Strider registered seven strikeouts and allowed just four hits over nearly five innings against the Arizona Diamondbacks, the report stated.

“He was awesome,” Braves manager Brian Snitker said. “He’s handled everything we’ve thrown at him and more. I’ve been so impressed with him.”

Strider was selected in the fourth round of the 2020 MLB Draft, and he went from Single-A to the majors last year. Strider has quickly become one of the most influential members of Atlanta’s pitching staff, MLB reports. His impressive first career start this week came as outfielder Marcell Ozuna and first baseman Matt Olson both botched seemingly routine plays in a 6-2 loss to the Diamondbacks Monday, extending the inning and leading to the five runs charged to Strider.

“[Being a reliever] can be a bit of an emotional roller-coaster,” Strider said. “I’m a methodical person. I like to have a routine. I like preparing. So, starting is really fun for me because I get to look ahead and be purposeful in everything I do. So, yeah, if that is the role that is best for the team, I’m excited to do it.”