Atlanta Braves News: AJ Smith-Shawver sharp, likely pitchers, more

AJ Smith-Shawver and the Atlanta Braves shut out the Chicago Cubs on Thursday with a 3-0 final. It was Smith-Shawver’s first big league start of the season, and he contributed immensely to the Braves’ series victory.

He threw 87 pitches in 4.1 scoreless innings. He struck out four, allowed two walks and three hits.

The now 21-year-old made six league appearances last season before starting this season in the minors. He’s had a rough season in Triple-A so far, but fortunately those numbers weren’t reflected in his big league appearance on Thursday.

More Braves news:

The Braves continue the road trip 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 designated to start a game.

While AJ Smith-Shawver was recalled to Atlanta, the Braves sent right-hander Daysbel Hernández back to Gwinnett. Hernández was just recalled to Atlanta on May 20.

Spencer Schwellenbach had a remarkable seven-inning outing on Wednesday. More information in the minor league recap.

Austin Riley successfully threw the diamond before Thursday’s game in Chicago. He seems to be nearing his return.

Braves Podcasts:

MLB News:

Chicago White Sox outfielder Eloy Jimenez 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 offered him to Triple-A Syracuse. The Tigers designated him for assignment Saturday.

The Baltimore Orioles have placed left-hander John Means on the 15-day injured list with a forearm strain. There is no timetable yet for his return.

The Texas Rangers have placed pitcher Jon Gray on injured reserve with a minor 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 the parks that will host the 2026 World Baseball Classic.