The Atlanta Braves placed right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver on the 15-day injured list Friday ahead of their series opener with the Pittsburgh Pirates. It appears that the Braves will be without Smith-Shawver for a significant amount of time. MLB.com’s Mark Bowman reports that Smith-Shawver has a Grade 2 oblique strain. That type of injury usually requires 6-8 weeks of recovery time.
Smith-Shawver has a Grade 2 oblique strain. This typically requires 6-8 weeks of recovery.
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) May 24, 2024
Smith-Shawver was impressive in his debut allowing three hits and two walks over 4 1⁄3 innings against the Cubs. He struck out four while throwing 87 pitches. Bowman also reports that Smith-Shawver experienced some discomfort during the third inning of Thursday’s start but didn’t notify the team until after the game.
Smith-Shawver felt some discomfort in yesterday’s third inning but didn’t tell the Braves until after the game.
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) May 24, 2024
It is unclear how the Braves will handle their fifth starter spot going forward. Atlanta recalled Ray Kerr to start Friday’s game in Pittsburgh. Darius Vines has been on the active roster since Tuesday, but has not appeared in a game yet. Either would be a candidate to start on the next turn through the rotation. Atlanta optioned Bryce Elder back to Gwinnett on Monday.
