Braves Temporarily Move To Six-Man Rotation
MLB Trade Rumors • • sports
Key Points:
- Manager Walt Weiss highlighted the challenge of managing the bullpen when giving starting pitchers an extra day of rest, noting the bullpen becomes shorthanded and unsustainable over time.
- 23-year-old Smith-Shawver has shown strong performance in Triple-A Gwinnett, posting a 1.66 ERA, 28.7% strikeout rate, and holding opponents to a .179 batting average over five starts.
- Smith-Shawver’s fastball velocity has increased this season, reaching up to 97.3 mph in his recent major league outing, compared to his previous range of 94-96 mph over past seasons.
- Despite past health struggles, Smith-Shawver's arm currently appears to be in good condition, suggesting potential readiness for major league opportunities.
