Chris Sale's spring training debut for the Atlanta Braves against the Minnesota Twins saw him pitch two perfect innings, showcasing his readiness for the upcoming season. Throwing just 21 pitches, Sale, who previously won the NL Cy Young and Triple Crown, faced a strong Twins lineup without recording any strikeouts. The Braves lost the game 3-1, but the performance of Bryce Elder, who followed Sale with two scoreless innings, underscores the team's pitching depth. The Braves are currently navigating significant changes in their rotation with the departure of veterans Max Fried and Charlie Morton, alongside Spencer Strider's recovery from elbow surgery. The competition for the remaining rotation spots is intense, with Elder, Ian Anderson, and AJ Smith-Shawver vying for a place.

Anthopoulos indicated that Strider is expected to pitch in at least one Grapefruit League game before the team's departure from Florida on March 23. As spring training progresses, the Braves will look to solidify their pitching staff for the season ahead. With 31 games remaining in spring training, there are ample opportunities for players to make their case.