Braves Reinstate AJ Smith-Shawver, Option Bryce Elder.
The Atlanta Braves have made a roster adjustment prior to their Tuesday game against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
They reinstated AJ Smith-Shawver from the injured list, and in a corresponding move, Bryce Elder, who started Monday’s game, was optioned back to Gwinnett.
Smith-Shawver is expected to pitch out of the bullpen for the time being. The Braves required 11 innings to secure a comeback victory in Monday’s series opener in Arizona.
During that game, Grant Holmes pitched three scoreless innings, and closer Raisel Iglesias added two more. Both pitchers are likely unavailable for Tuesday’s and possibly Wednesday’s games due to their recent workload.
Smith-Shawver had suffered an oblique injury during his season debut on May 23, where he delivered 4 1/3 scoreless innings at Wrigley Field against the Cubs.
Initially, the injury was projected to sideline him for 6-8 weeks, but he began throwing again soon after.
Last week, he made a rehab appearance at Rome, allowing one run and striking out four over two innings.
It seems that Smith-Shawver will continue to build up his arm strength in the bullpen for now.
This move is strategic for the Braves as they navigate their bullpen’s availability and manage their roster.
With Holmes and Iglesias needing rest, Smith-Shawver’s return provides a necessary fresh arm to the bullpen, ensuring the team can maintain its pitching effectiveness in the next few games.
Bryce Elder’s optioning back to Gwinnett, despite starting Monday’s game, highlights the flexibility the Braves are utilizing with their roster to keep their bullpen and starting rotation well-balanced and effective.
Smith-Shawver’s performance in his debut and rehab outings shows promise, and his presence in the bullpen can be a valuable asset for the Braves as they continue their series against the Diamondbacks.
This roster move not only addresses the immediate need for fresh pitching but also positions Smith-Shawver to gradually work his way back to full strength and potentially return to a starting role in the future.
Overall, the Braves’ decision to reinstate Smith-Shawver and option Elder underscores their proactive approach to managing player health and roster efficiency.
By ensuring they have capable pitchers ready to step in, the Braves aim to maintain their competitive edge and continue their strong performance as the season progresses.
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