Ian Anderson's Atlanta Braves reunion lasted all of one game before the franchise again designated the reliever for assignment. Anderson was initially competing with AJ Smither-Shawver, Bryce Elder, and Grant Holmes throughout spring training for the final role in Atlanta's rotation.
When it became clear Anderson wasn't going to win this race, the team dealt Anderson to the Los Angeles Angels in exchange for Jose Suarez. Not even a month later, the Braves would claim Anderson off waivers from the Angels, adding the former starter to the active roster for Monday's opener against the Rockies.
Since leaving Atlanta, Anderson became a bullpen arm for the Angels and was viewed as an emergency option if someone needed to eat innings. Jose Suarez was in a similar spot for Atlanta but would prove not to be a long-term fit despite the healthy level of desperation. Anderson is now being handed the same fate after only one game in Atlanta.
The #Braves today recalled RHP AJ Smith-Shawver to Atlanta and he will start tonight’s game in Colorado. The club also designated RHP Ian Anderson for assignment.
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) April 29, 2025
Atlanta mismanaged Ian Anderson's Braves return, owing one final shot to the struggling veteran
The likely path here is exactly what Atlanta has done with veteran reliever Jessie Chavez in recent weeks. Designating the pitcher for assignment only to have Chavez ending back in Gwinnett and eventually the major league roster.
Anderson has struggled since coming back from injury, and in truth, was dealing with clear issues before the surgery. However, it cannot be ignored that Anderson is a proven postseason performer, and Atlanta is facing a severe underwhelming lack of options.
It would have been far better to demote an arm that you have zero questions about moving forward. Anderson could potentially provide value either in a long relief role or attempt to go to the minors and stretch back out as a starter.
Whatever the pitcher's path, the Braves would be wise to attempt to salvage the career one last time. It isn't the case with Bryce Elder, where it was a single great half of a season; Anderson had established two years of production as well as great postseason starts.
Yes, we are years removed from Anderson pitching at this level, and the struggles are obvious. Still, you're currently starting Grant Holmes and Bryce Elder in your rotation. It isn't as if the Braves are overwhelmed with great options at the bottom of their rotation.
Atlanta would be wise to attempt to bring back Anderson and allow the pitcher one last attempt to stretch out and attempt to get back to form.
The positive side of this is the return of AJ Smith-Shawver, who took meaningful steps forward in his last outing with the team. Giving the young pitcher another chance is the right call and the silver lining of a disappointing move.