The Atlanta Braves recalled AJ Smith-Shawver in advance of Thursday’s series finale against the Cubs. To make room on the active roster, Atlanta optioned reliever Daysbel Hernandez back to Gwinnett
The #Braves today recalled RHP AJ Smith-Shawver to Atlanta. The club optioned RHP Daysbel Hernández to Triple-A Gwinnett following last night’s game.
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) May 23, 2024
Brian Snitker announced after Wednesday’s game that Smith-Shawver would get the start Thursday. Darius Vines is also on the roster and could be used in relief if needed, but is likely the favorite to start Friday’s series opener in Pittsburgh.
Smith-Shawver’s numbers at Gwinnett are unimpressive, but has tinkered with his pitch mix and has shown an increase in velocity as well as improvement with his changeup. He made six appearances (five starts) last season and showed flashes of his future potential while posting a 4.26 ERA and a 3.79 xERA in 25 1⁄3 innings. With Bryce Elder back at Gwinnett, one of Smith-Shawver or Vines will have a chance to stick in the rotation for at least the short term.
Hernandez served as the 27th man for Atlanta’s doubleheader Monday in San Diego and then was added to the active roster on Tuesday. He made two appearances in relief while allowing three hits, a walk and an unearned run in two innings.
