Atlanta Braves News: Ian Anderson started for the Braves on Sunday vs. the Tampa Bay Rays. Anderson has not pitched in the Major Leagues since 2022 after undergoing Tommy John surgery in April of 2023.

Anderson is beginning his spring mission to claim a spot in the starting rotation. His spring didn’t start the way Braves fans were hoping as Anderson spiked several balls in the dirt in front of the plate. He walked three of the nine batters he faced and struck out one. He was credited with one earned run on the day.

Nothing to worry about with it being just the first start of the spring for Anderson. He has plenty of time to get his work in, make adjustments, and make his case for a starting spot. Anderson and Grant Holmes are the favorites to round out the rotation to start the year since they are both out of options.

Anderson posted a 3.44 ERA in 68 minor-league innings in 2024 as he made his return from Tommy John. He struck out 68 hitters in 68.0 innings with a 1.279 WHIP. He limited opposing hitters to just 0.9 homers per nine innings pitched.

Anderson was the number five prospect in all of baseball (according to Baseball Prospectus) entering the 2021 season. He boasts a career 3.97 ERA, even with a rough 5.00 ERA in 22 starts in the 2022 campaign before requiring Tommy John surgery.

How do you feel about Ian Anderson’s chances in the rotation this season? Let us know in the comments.