Just when it looked like rookie sensation AJ Smith-Shawver had turned the corner and was settling in as a legit piece of the Atlanta Braves rotation, the unexpected happened. A torn UCL is confirmed in the wake of his start Thursday against the Phillies.
And make no mistake: no matter which surgical road he takes (Tommy John or otherwise), he’s out for the season. That part’s not up for debate.
The Gut-Wrenching Timeline
It all started with a line drive off the ankle, a couple more batters, and then a slow walk off the mound. But the video told a different story. Grimaces and altered mechanics were clear.
That unmistakable look of “something’s wrong.” Manager Brian Snitker’s comment that Smith-Shawver “felt a pop in his elbow” said it all. The kind of pop that ends seasons, not just outings.
Let’s remember: Smith-Shawver was one of the most hyped arms in the Braves system coming into 2025. After shaking off a bumpy start to the year, the 23-year-old started looking like the real deal this month.
The ERA sat at a respectable 3.86, and he was punching out nearly a batter per inning. It felt like the beginning of something special. Now, it might be the end—at least for 2025.
Bryce Elder is Back
Where does this leave Atlanta? In the short term, the Braves are dusting off Bryce Elder, the former All-Star who’s been serviceable but not exactly lights-out this season. A 4.50 ERA isn’t a death sentence, but it’s hardly the kind of number that calms the waters.
Atlanta’s 26-29 record doesn’t inspire confidence, and with a stacked National League, the Braves can’t afford to tread water much longer. There’s been speculation already that they’ll need to trade for a starter before the deadline—but will the front office pull that trigger if they’re still hovering below .500?
Looking Ahead For the Braves
Look, the Braves entered this season thinking World Series or bust. Injuries, inconsistencies, and now the loss of Smith-Shawver have thrown that plan into serious jeopardy. If they can rally behind guys like Elder, and if the offense finds its spark, there’s still hope. But the margin for error is paper-thin now.
Here’s hoping the young right-hander makes a full recovery—because if we saw anything this spring, it’s that AJ Smith-Shawver belongs. Just not, unfortunately, in the 2025 playoff push.
