Strider now has nine straight starts with at least nine strikeouts per game, and it’s the longest active streak in baseball, surpassing John Smoltz’s Braves record, which was set in 1997.
Strider ended Monday night vs. Miami with 8IP, 2H, and 13 punchouts. He had a perfect game bid going, too, which ended in the seventh courtesy of an error by first baseman Matt Olson. He held onto a no-hitter before giving up two hits in the eighth inning. Joe Jimenez came in to close out the shutout win.
The Braves won 11-0 thanks to five home runs hit by Sean Murphy, Sam Hilliard (x2), Eddie Rosario, and Austin Riley. Ozzie Albies also hit a bases-clearing triple. Atlanta’s offense was electric and unstoppable, combined with the outstanding pitching effort by Strider.
The Braves had 100+ wins and won the division title last year, and the latest MLB power rankings have them as the best team in the MLB. However, Monday’s win comes when Atlanta has many early injuries. The Braves currently lead the NL East with a record of 15-8.
The home series against Miami continues Tuesday at 7:20 P.M. EST. Hoeing vs. Morton will be the pitching duel.
