While it may not have grabbed headlines, AJ Smith-Shawver’s outing for AAA warrants some attention. He looked good over 73 pitches, striking out 5 and walking 1 in 4.1 scoreless frames.
Given the state of the Braves’ rotation, grasping at a shortened AAA start of a former top prospect who didn’t have the time to fully establish himself at the major league level prior to injury seems warranted. That said, he was on his way to potentially establishing himself as a major league starter, despite rough mechanical consistency and command. Given that Atlanta essentially has one trustworthy starter, we could easily see Smith-Shawver in Atlanta sooner rather than later. It’s encouraging to see him pitching well on the farm as he works his way back from injury. I hope he has found some consistency in his recover, while maintaining the stuff (particularly that glorious turbocharged splitter that he was throwing potentially by accident before his injury).
Advertisement
Braves News
You can continue to track the signing status of the Braves’ draft picks, as we still await a number of signings.
The Braves were unlucky, but also let themselves down in a tight loss to the Rangers that they easily could have won.
MLB News
The A’s traded veteran starter Aaron Civale to the Cubs for a minor league pitcher.
The O’s signed a 5 year $90 million extension with veteran starting pitcher Kyle Bradish.
The Mariners reinstated Julio Rodriguez off the concussion IL.
Will Smith is expected out for the Dodgers until at least mid-August.
Brandon Woodruff is having season-ending shoulder surgery.
The Reds finalized their extension with star pitcher Chase Burns.
Read the full article here