Atlanta Braves Spring Training Updates: Ian Anderson's Debut and Roster Battles

Image credits: AP Photo/Gerald Herbert

The Atlanta Braves are in full swing with their spring training, and one of the most intriguing storylines to follow is the performance of Ian Anderson. Anderson, who is trying to win one of the two spots at the back of the rotation, made his spring debut on Sunday against the Tampa Bay Rays. Although he walked three batters in 1 2/3 innings, his fastball velocity was 91-93 mph, which is a couple of ticks below his pre-injury velocity. Anderson's health is the biggest positive, and his teammates believe in him and his progress since surgery in April 2023.

Anderson's fastball velocity averaged 94 mph in 2022, and it was 94.6 mph in 2021, his first full season. He posted a 3.58 ERA in 24 starts and finished fifth in NL Rookie of the Year balloting. Anderson is trying to add a slider to his regular repertoire, which includes his fastball, changeup, and curveball. He threw the slider eight or nine times on Sunday and was encouraged by its movement. The Braves manager, Brian Snitker, said that Anderson's health is the most important thing, and he is not worried about the results of his spring debut.

The Braves have two openings in their rotation until Spencer Strider returns from elbow surgery rehab in late April. Anderson and Grant Holmes are the favorites for the last two rotation spots, but Bryce Elder is also an option. Elder pitched two scoreless innings with one hit and two strikeouts in the spring opener against the Minnesota Twins. The Braves' rotation is still a work in progress, and the team will make decisions based on the results of the spring training. The Braves' spring training schedule is as follows:

• February 25: vs. Orioles, 4:05 EST
• February 26: vs. Twins, 1:05 EST
• February 27: vs. Rays, 1:05 EST

In other news, Eli White has expanded his versatility to the infield this spring. White, who has played almost exclusively in the outfield as a major leaguer, made a slick play at second base on Sunday. The Braves believe that White's versatility will give him a better chance of making the team. The Braves' outfield setup is also a topic of discussion, with a potential platoon for Jarred Kelenic and Bryan De La Cruz until Ronald Acuña Jr. returns. The team's roster battles are heating up, and the spring training games will be crucial in determining the final spots.

The Braves' spring training games are being closely watched by fans and analysts alike. The team's performance will be crucial in determining their chances of success in the upcoming season. With a strong lineup and a talented pitching staff, the Braves are looking to make a deep run in the playoffs. The spring training updates will continue to provide valuable insights into the team's progress and preparations for the new season.