Ian Anderson, the Atlanta Braves pitcher, is back on the mound this spring, marking a crucial phase in his recovery from Tommy John surgery that he underwent in 2023. At just 26, Anderson aims to secure a spot in the Braves' rotation after a challenging two-year journey. With a lifetime record of 22-13 and a 3.97 ERA, he played pivotal roles in the Braves' postseason successes in 2020 and 2021. However, a disappointing 2022 season with a 5.00 ERA followed by surgery sidelined him throughout 2023. He made a promising comeback in 2024 with a 3.44 ERA in 15 minor league appearances.

The Braves, coming off a season where they finished second in the National League East, are looking to solidify their rotation with Chris Sale, Reynaldo Lopez, and Spencer Schwellenbach. Anderson, along with Grant Holmes, is expected to compete for the last two rotation spots until Spencer Strider returns from his elbow surgery. Anderson's performance this spring will be crucial for a Braves team eager to bounce back.