MLB predictions: 1 bold prediction for every NL East team

MLB spring training: 1 bold prediction for every NL East team

Oct 11, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves right fielder Ronald Acuna Jr. (13) reacts after hitting a double against the Philadelphia Phillies in the first inning during game one of the NLDS for the 2022 MLB Playoffs at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

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Spencer Strider (65) throws against the Houston Astros in the second inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /

MLB predictions: Atlanta Braves

Spencer Strider becomes the breakout star in 2023.

We saw it all last year. Spencer Strider was arguably the best young pitcher in baseball, posting a 2.67 ERA in 31 games (20 starts). His emergence was enough for president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos confidence to sign him to a six-year, $75 million contract extension through 2028.

But it feels like his dominance has been somewhat overlooked, at least nationally, after he pitched with an oblique injury and allowed five runs in 2.1 innings against the Phillies in the NLDS. But that won’t be the case in 2023.

In 2023, Strider will pick up where he left off in the regular season. He’ll be the face of the Braves’ rotation for years to come and could very well be their Max Fried replacement if he were to leave as a free agent after the season.

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