Spencer Strider’s third-and likely final-rehab start with Triple-A Gwinnett was pure electricity. On a Thursday afternoon in Norfolk, the Atlanta Braves flamethrower struck out 13 of the first 20 batters he faced, flashing the kind of dominant form that made him one of MLB’s most feared arms before landing on the injured list last year. Strider threw 5.1 innings, allowing just three hits, one earned run, and two walks while piling up 13 strikeouts on 90 pitches-62 of them for strikes. His final pitch? Strike two on batter No. 21, his 13th strikeout victim, before being lifted right on schedule with 90 pitches.

That left him tied with Bryse Wilson for the Gwinnett single-game strikeout record, but the Braves got exactly what they needed: a healthy, dominant right-hander ramped up and ready to return. Strider’s rehab has been steady by design. After building up pitch count and command across three minor-league outings, Thursday’s performance left little doubt-he’s ready. With his next turn on regular rest lining up for Tuesday, the 25-year-old could be activated as soon as Atlanta’s upcoming series in Toronto. Dominant? Yeah. Efficient? Braves fans weren’t so sure.

While the strikeouts stole the show, Strider’s pitch count drew mixed reviews online. “Dominant-yes. Efficient-no. 90 pitches through 5.1 against a AAA team? That’s not efficient.” “We need him to go at least 7 against these MLB guys.” “I wouldn’t say efficient if he’s throwing 90 pitches in the 5th.”

“Strider had 25 whiffs. That’s insane. I think he’s ready to return.” Strider’s return couldn’t come at a better time for the Braves, who look poised to reinsert their mustached ace right back into the heart of the rotation. If Thursday was any indication, the strikeout king is about to make the leap from Norfolk to nightmare fuel for big-league hitters.