Spencer Strider's path back to elite form could redefine the Atlanta Braves’ 2026 season. Can a boost in induced vertical break (IVB) on his four-seam fastball make the difference? Jake Mastroianni unpacks the science behind IVB, revealing how this key metric transforms a pitcher’s arsenal—illustrated by Nick Pivetta’s success and Strider’s own changing performance. Discover why location, velocity, and pairing with secondary pitches like Strider’s slider are crucial, and what the advanced data tells us about getting hitters to swing under the fastball.

Additional mailbag rapid-fires pit stars like Matt Olson versus Freddie Freeman, Chris Sale against John Smoltz, and debate which pitching prospects could see MLB action first. Plus, what would it take for Chipper Jones to become the Braves’ full-time hitting coach? Tune in for analytics-driven Braves insights, intriguing hypotheticals, and answers to burning Atlanta baseball questions shaping the team’s future.

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Atlanta Braves suddenly gain $15 million in payroll flexibility after the Jurickson Profar suspension—will Alex Anthopoulos use this windfall for an impact move or wait as the season unfolds? Jake Mastroianni tackles hot mailbag questions, examining rumors of trades for Isaac Paredes, Ryan Mountcastle, and potential signings like Lucas Giolito and Zach Littell. Fans wonder if the Braves should bolster their rotation or strengthen the lineup, especially with Ha-Seong Kim and Sean Murphy possibly returning soon.

Key topics include how Mike Yastrzemski’s left-handed power can offset Profar’s absence, Michael Harris II’s spring progress and evolving approach, and whether Chipper Jones’s coaching has influenced Atlanta’s recent at-bat quality. Insightful takes on the club’s depth strategy, prospects’ status, and payroll strategy round out the discussion. Can the Braves leverage their unexpected budget for a playoff-caliber addition, or will they trust their current depth until trade deadline fireworks?

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

PlayStation
This episode of is brought to you by MLB The Show 26. Visit https://mlbthe.show/lockedon and use code “LOCKEDON” to unlock a pack for use in Diamond Dynasty. Pre-Order now, Available March 17th on PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. RATED E FOR EVERYONE.

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Indeed
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Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
FanDuel is giving you a way to turn that energy into even bigger potential wins with a College Basketball Parlay Profit Boost.Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Austin Riley emerges as the Atlanta Braves’ biggest X-factor in 2026. Can he recapture his All-Star form and elevate the Braves’ offense from good to elite status? Jake Mastroianni spotlights Riley’s recent struggles, injury updates, and the pivotal role he plays alongside stars like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Matt Olson. The discussion digs into advanced stats like WRC+, strikeout rates, and leaderboard comparisons, making a compelling case for why Riley’s performance could define the season.

Key topics include Spencer Strider’s impact on Atlanta’s pitching staff, the importance of a high-powered offense versus a dominant rotation, and X-factor candidates like Michael Harris, Ozzy Albies, and key young relievers. Updates on Chris Sale’s and Strider’s latest outings, anticipated roster moves, and intriguing trade rumors—like a potential Ryan Mountcastle addition—keep Braves fans primed for the season. Will the Braves’ dynamic lineup and bullpen depth be enough for a championship run?

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

PlayStation
This episode of is brought to you by MLB The Show 26. Visit https://mlbthe.show/lockedon and use code “LOCKEDON” to unlock a pack for use in Diamond Dynasty. Pre-Order now, Available March 17th on PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. RATED E FOR EVERYONE.

Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
FanDuel is giving you a way to turn that energy into even bigger potential wins with a College Basketball Parlay Profit Boost.Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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