Chris Sale’s latest reward for his great comeback season will come in the form of his sixth career Opening Day start. The Braves officially announced Sale will be on the mound for their season opener against the Padres on March 27 at Petco Park.

Speaking of Strider, he may be back sooner rather than later after making his Spring Training debut March 17. Strider threw nearly three shutout innings versus the Boston Red Sox, with six strikeouts in his first start since an elbow injury and surgery in early 2024.

The Braves naming Chris Sale as their Opening Day starter is more than just a rotation decision—it’s a statement of intent.