Smith-Shawver Returns from Rehab but Hits Innings-Limit Wall
The Braves righty made his first big league start since late May, showing lingering workload concerns after never exceeding 4.1 IP across five rehab outings.
AJ Smith-Shawver returned to the majors for his first start since May 29, 2025, following a rehab assignment of at least five starts. He was unable to complete the fifth inning, allowing a walk, single, RBI double, and sacrifice fly. His rehab outings never exceeded 4.1 innings, suggesting an active innings cap or workload restriction. Outside of the fifth-inning trouble, the outing was otherwise considered strong, but his durability and pitch limits remain a concern.
More on the Braves wire.
Braves Bring Back Kyle Farmer on Minor League Pact
The Atlanta native returns to the organization as veteran infield depth at Triple-A Gwinnett after a brief release.
Ronald Acuña Jr. Returns: Braves Activate Star OF from IL
Atlanta reinstates Acuña after a hamstring stint, with Brewer Hicklen optioned to Triple-A Gwinnett in a corresponding move.
Acuña Reinstated from IL as Braves Outfielder Returns from Hamstring Injury
Atlanta officially activated Ronald Acuña Jr. off the 10-day injured list, ending his second hamstring-related absence of the 2026 season.
Ronald Acuña Jr. activated from IL, rejoins Braves
Atlanta's star outfielder is off the injured list and back in action as the Braves gain ground in the NL East.
Braves' Waiver Claim Handley Has Been Hurt Most of 2026
Maverick Handley, acquired via waiver claim from Baltimore, has spent much of the current season dealing with injury and has been largely unavailable.
Acuña Return Delayed at Least One More Day
Atlanta's star outfielder remains off the active roster and out of the lineup Friday despite earlier reports of a possible imminent return from rehab.