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.
Smith-Shawver Minor League Stint Ends Friday, Braves Decision Looms
After a dominant 6.1-inning outing at Gwinnett, Smith-Shawver is set to clear his rehab minimum and could return to Atlanta's rotation.
Strider Starts Throwing Program, Return Still Distant
Atlanta's Spencer Strider has begun a throwing program, a positive step away from surgery but not a sign he's close to returning.
Strider Cleaned Out Locker, Not Expected Back This Season
Beat reporter confirms Strider's locker has been cleared and given to Mahle, strongly implying Strider is done for the year.
Schwellenbach's Return Timeline Slipping Away for Atlanta
The Braves righty began his throwing program in June but remains far from game action, with a rehab assignment still weeks away at best.
Strider Unlikely to Return in 2025, Begins Throwing Program
Braves manager Walt Weiss indicated he cannot count on Strider pitching this year, though a throwing program start offers some hope for 2026.
Chris Sale Ejected During Game After Balk Dispute Carries Over
Atlanta's ace was tossed from the game, with lingering tension from a balk ruling the day before cited as the backdrop.