GOOD NEWS : Braves on the Brink of a Power Surge Strider, Acuña Jr., and Kimbrel Nearing Impactful Returns sooner than expected a high boost for braves

Braves’ Reinforcements Incoming: Strider, Acuña Jr., and Kimbrel Nearing Return

Help is on the horizon for the Atlanta Braves, as a wave of former All-Stars could soon rejoin the big league roster—potentially reshaping the course of their season.

Before Thursday’s matchup against the Phillies, manager Brian Snitker delivered encouraging updates on Spencer Strider, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Craig Kimbrel—three major names who could provide a much-needed boost in the coming weeks.

Strider Dominates in Triple-A, Big League Return Imminent
Spencer Strider looked electric in a rehab outing for Triple-A Gwinnett, punching out 13 batters on just 90 pitches. The Braves will evaluate him following this performance, and if all goes well, he could make his 2025 season debut as early as next week. With Reynaldo López sidelined potentially through August following shoulder surgery, Strider’s return couldn’t come at a better time.

Acuña Jr. on Track for Late-May Comeback
Ronald Acuña Jr., still recovering from offseason knee surgery, is scheduled to travel to Los Angeles next week for a check-in with his surgeon. If cleared, he’ll ramp up to full baseball activity, including fielding and agility work. While there’s no definitive return date, late May remains a realistic target for the reigning MVP.

Kimbrel Eyes May Arrival as Bullpen Needs Bolstering
Veteran closer Craig Kimbrel continues his buildup in Florida. Though he has yet to face live hitters, the plan is for him to begin a minor league assignment soon. If he proves effective, the Braves expect him to join the bullpen sometime in May. With Joe Jiménez out long-term and recent bullpen additions struggling to stick, a sharp Kimbrel could play a pivotal role.

Atlanta’s front office has been actively experimenting with relief options, signing and quickly designating pitchers like Hector Neris and Jesse Chavez while trading for Rafael Montero. But with internal reinforcements like Strider and possibly Kimbrel on the way—and Acuña not far behind—the Braves may soon have the firepower to regain momentum and reassert themselves in the NL race.