The Atlanta Braves were dealt a significant blow today with several key players being placed on the injured list due to various ailments. Outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr., infielder Nacho Alvarez Jr., and catcher Sean Murphy have all been placed on the 10-day injured list, while right-handers Spencer Strider and Joe Jiménez have been moved to the 15-day injured list. All of the moves were backdated to March 24.

Acuña, who is recovering from left knee ACL reconstruction, has been one of the Braves’ most dynamic players since his return from injury last season. His presence in the lineup has been a major factor in Atlanta’s offensive success when he stays healthy. However, his ongoing recovery has led to this precautionary move to ensure his full return to form. The team is hopeful that this setback will not be a long-term issue, though it will keep Acuña out of action for the time being. It remains curious, however, why the Braves brought in multiple options for the outfield. Does this suggest Acuña could be out longer than expected?

Alvarez, who has been a solid contributor for the Braves in the infield, is dealing with left wrist inflammation. While the severity of the injury is unclear, the team is taking a cautious approach to avoid further complications. Murphy, the Braves’ starting catcher, was also placed on the 10-day injured list after suffering a fractured left ribcage. The injury is expected to sideline him for a short period.

Spencer Strider, the Atlanta Braves’ ace pitcher, has been placed on the 15-day injured list as he continues his recovery from a right elbow injury. This move is primarily procedural, allowing Strider additional time to fully regain his form following the internal brace procedure he underwent in April 2024 to repair damage to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his right elbow. ​Strider made encouraging strides during Spring Training, delivering two Grapefruit League starts where he accumulated a 10:1 strikeout-to-walk ratio and conceded only two earned runs over four innings. These performances positioned him for a potential return to the Braves’ rotation by late April.

Despite these positive signs, the Braves are exercising caution to ensure Strider’s complete recovery. The team has not provided a definitive timeline for his return, but sources suggest that a late April debut remains a realistic target.

Strider’s absence poses challenges for the Braves’ pitching staff, given his pivotal role as a top-tier starter. However, the organization is optimistic that this strategic move will facilitate his full return to elite performance levels once he rejoins the rotation.

Jiménez is also on the 15-day injured list with a left knee articular cartilage injury. His absence could affect the bullpen depth, especially given his importance in high-leverage situations.

While the Braves are facing a challenging stretch with multiple key players sidelined, the team’s depth will be tested in the coming days. The Braves are hoping for quick recoveries and are expected to make adjustments to their lineup and pitching staff as they navigate this stretch of injuries. The backdated nature of the injured list placements means the players will miss a minimal amount of time at this stage, but the Braves will be without some of their most important contributors as they continue their push for the season.

Related: Jurickson Profar Makes His Return to San Diego