A former Tiger has been named The Sporting News National League (NL) Rookie of the Year following his first full season with the Atlanta Braves.
Clemson right-hander Spencer Strider earned the prestigious honor following a historic rookie season for the Braves where he broke several long-standing records including becoming the fastest pitcher in MLB history to reach 200 strikeouts in a single season, surpassing Hall of Famer Randy Johnson (2001).
In his first full season in Atlanta, Strider recorded a 2.67 ERA with an 11-5 record and 202 strikeouts through 31 game appearances and 20 starts. Coming into the 2022 season, the right-hander quickly transitioned from a bullpen role to a key starter for the Braves’ rotation, bringing a nasty triple-digit fastball and slider combination that have been big for Strider’s success on the mound for Atlanta.