Braves DFA Tyler Kinley, Call Up AJ Smith-Shawver
MLB Trade Rumors • • sports
Key Points:
- The Atlanta Braves have recalled right-handed pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver from Triple-A Gwinnett and designated veteran reliever Tyler Kinley for assignment, with Smith-Shawver set to start the upcoming game in Minnesota.
- Kinley, 35, had a strong 2025 season and performed well through June 2026 but has struggled since early July, posting a 6.39 ERA over 12 2/3 innings with increased home runs and walks.
- Kinley’s home run rate has surged to a career-high 1.9 homers per nine innings in 2026, partly due to a low ground-ball rate and declining effectiveness of his slider, his primary pitch.
- Despite maintaining a fastball velocity of 94.4 mph, Kinley’s slider has seen a drop in swinging-strike rate and increased slugging against it, contributing to his recent struggles.
- With Kinley off the Braves' roster, he must clear waivers; while his remaining salary and buyout may deter some teams, his prior strong performance could attract a club willing to take a chance on him for the stretch run.
