The Atlanta Braves lost rookie pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver in what didn't appear to be an alarming injury. Smith-Shawver was struck by a liner and was checked out by the training staff and manager Brian Snitker. The starter remained in the game, inducing a flyout before looking to the dugout for help. Smith-Shawver was pulled, and the assumption was that it was an injury sustained when a line drive caught the pitcher on the leg. However, it appears far more serious with the rookie feeling something pop in his elbow.
When asked about the situation, Snitker offered a telling "it doesn't look good." This type of negative comment isn't suggesting the promising starter is going to be back on the mound anytime soon or even perhaps in the 2025 season. Now, the Braves will be forced to bring back starter Bryce Elder, who had turned a corner before being demoted to make room for Spencer Strider.
AJ Smith-Shawver Suffered an Elbow Injury That Has Atlanta Braves Fans Expecting the Worst
It is a discouraging injury in what has been a season of consistent frustrations. This injury adds a further sense of urgency to the team's need to add meaningful pieces ahead of the trade deadline. Both the bullpen and outfield were obvious targets heading into the week. Now, the team needs to add a starter to the list as well. With Grant Holmes and Bryce Elder both unproven question marks, the team needs to consider adding another high-end arm.
For Smith-Shawver, this is a devastating blow just as the young starter was establishing his role. The pitcher had bounced back from his previous struggles throwing one regrettable pitch in an otherwise impressive outing. One cut short from what appears to be a potential season-ending injury, or at least one keeping the starter on the shelf for an extended period.
It is the second starter the Braves have lost after Reynaldo Lopez was put on the shelf early in the season. Grant Holmes and Bryce Elder will now be relied on with Chris Sale, Spencer Strider, and Spencer Schwellenbach sitting atop Atlanta's rotation. Far from an ideal scenario for a team already dealing with questionable depth.