AJ Smith-Shawver and the Atlanta Braves shutout the Chicago Cubs on Thursday with a 3-0 final. It was Smith-Shawver’s first big league start of the season, and he came up huge to contribute to the Braves’ series win.
4.1 IP, 3 H, 2 BB, 4 K, 87 pitches.
Solid 2024 season debut for AJ Smith-Shawver. pic.twitter.com/Pi5Pzsec55
— Bally Sports: Braves (@BravesOnBally) May 23, 2024
He threw 87 pitches in 4.1 scoreless innings. He struck out four, surrendered two walks, and three hits.
The now 21-year-old appeared in six big league games last season before beginning this season in the minors. He’s had a tough season in Triple-A thus far, but luckily, those numbers didn’t carry into his big league appearance Thursday.
More Braves News:
The Braves continue the roadtrip in the form of a three game set against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Reynaldo Lopez, Chris Sale, and a pitcher yet to be determined are each penciled in to start a game.
While AJ Smith-Shawver was recalled to Atlanta, the Braves optioned right-hander Daysbel Hernández back to Gwinnett. Hernández was just recalled to Atlanta on May 20.
Spencer Schwellenbach turned in a remarkable seven inning outing on Wednesday. More in the minor league recap.
Austin Riley was able to throw across the diamond ahead of Thursday’s matchup in Chicago. He appears to be nearing his return.
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MLB News:
Chicago White Sox outfielder Eloy Jimènez will miss an “extended period of time” after suffering a hamstring injury on Tuesday. The club had already placed him on the 10-day injured list.
The New York Mets claimed right-hander Ty Adcock off waivers from the Detroit Tigers and optioned him to Triple-A Syracuse. The Tigers designated him for assignment on Saturday.
The Baltimore Orioles placed left-hander John Means on the 15-day injured list with a forearm strain. There is not yet a timetable for his return.
The Texas Rangers placed pitcher Jon Gray on the injured list with a mild right groin strain. The move is another blow to the Rangers’ pitching staff.
Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell announced that right-hander Adbert Alzolay will be out for at least two more weeks. Alzolay suffered a flexor strain on May 13.
Houston and Miami are among parks that will host the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
