The rivalry between the Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies intensified when Braves ace Spencer Strider became the focal point. Strider hit Bryce Harper with a fastball, forcing him to exit the game. The Braves lost at Citizens Bank Park, but Phillies fans were unhappy with Strider.
Fans started to boo the pitcher after Harper took one for the team. While Strider mentioned it was not intentional, Phillies fans were still upset. After the game, the pitcher took a sarcastic shot at fans with his bold response.
The Athletic’s Jayson Stark posted Strider’s response on X.
“I said to Spencer Strider last night: “I know you’ve been booed in this town (Philly) before. What did you make of tonight’s version, which felt especially loud?” Stark wrote
“I love pitching here. I mean, where else do they chant your name? Ask how your family’s doing? They seem very interested in my well-being, and I appreciate that,” Strider said.
I said to Spencer Strider last night: "I know you've been booed in this town (Philly) before. What did you make of tonight's version" – which felt especially loud?
— Jayson Stark (@jaysonst) May 28, 2025
“I love pitching here. I mean, where else do they chant your name? Ask how your family's doing? They seem very…
The Phillies and Braves are divisional rivals, and many fans believe that Strider hates pitchers in Philadelphia. It’s common for Braves pitchers to get booed, especially if they hit a Phillies player. Likewise, the same could happen in Truist Park in Atlanta.
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Spencer Strider Takes A Plunge After His Return In 2025
Strider has returned to pitching after a challenging period of injuries. He underwent elbow surgery to repair his right ulnar collateral ligament. After making his first start this year, he strained his right hamstring and was placed on the injured list again.
It’s been a rough start for Strider and his fastball velocity is slightly down compared to his pre-surgery peak. The pitcher acknowledged that he’s yet to return to form. Spencer Strider holds a low 4.50 ERA with a 0-3 record in 14 innings pitched.
The Braves need pitchers, and Strider will play a vital role in helping the team reach the playoffs. Along with Strider, Ronald Acuna Jr. has returned to the lineup. The Braves are still struggling as they rank 21st in the week 9 MLB power rankings. They are 9.5 games behind the Phillies in the NL East division.
Also Read: Philadelphia Phillies Fans Call For Revenge On Ronald Acuna Jr. After Spencer Strider’s Response
