Smith-Shawver to return in Game 1 of doubleheader vs. Mets (source)
MLB.com • • sports
Key Points:
- The Atlanta Braves plan to strengthen their starting rotation with the return of AJ Smith-Shawver, who will start the first game of Wednesday’s doubleheader against the Mets after recovering from Tommy John surgery.
- Smith-Shawver is replacing Grant Holmes in Game 1, while Chris Sale, originally scheduled for Wednesday’s first game, will now start the nightcap due to a rainout and rotation adjustments.
- The 23-year-old former top prospect has shown strong performance in rehab starts across Single-A Augusta and Triple-A Gwinnett, posting a 1.53 ERA and throwing a fastball averaging 97.5 mph recently.
- Smith-Shawver had a promising start to the 2025 season with a 2.33 ERA in seven starts before an elbow injury sidelined him, and his return is crucial as the Braves' rotation has been impacted by injuries to Hurston Waldrep and Spencer Strider.
- The Braves continue monitoring other top starting pitchers like Tarik Skubal and Logan Webb ahead of the trade deadline but are currently relying on Smith-Shawver’s comeback to bolster their rotation.
