Braves Smith-Shawver: UCL Tear & Next Steps
- Atlanta -- The Atlanta Braves face uncertainty as rookie right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver, a key part of their pitching rotation, has been diagnosed with a torn ulnar collateral ligament...
- Smith-Shawver, 22, left Thursday's game against the Philadelphia phillies after feeling a "pop" in his elbow.he was initially placed on the 15-day injured list but has as been...
- braves manager Brian Snitker addressed the situation before Friday's game against the Boston Red Sox.
Braves pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver’s season faces a critical juncture after a UCL tear. Teh rising star’s promising year, marked by a 3-2 record and a 3.86 ERA, now hangs in the balance. Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker confirms the diagnosis, leaving the possibility of Tommy John surgery as a looming question, which could sideline Smith-Shawver for an extended period. News Directory 3 keeps you informed. Smith-Shawver’s early exit against the Phillies highlighted the severity of the injury. The team now awaits further medical consultation to chart his path back to the mound and adjust their pitching strategy. Discover what’s next …
Braves Pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver’s Role in Doubt After Elbow Injury
Atlanta — The Atlanta Braves face uncertainty as rookie right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver, a key part of their pitching rotation, has been diagnosed with a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his right elbow. The injury throws his future role with the team into question.
Smith-Shawver, 22, left Thursday’s game against the Philadelphia phillies after feeling a “pop” in his elbow.he was initially placed on the 15-day injured list but has as been moved to the 60-day IL.
braves manager Brian Snitker addressed the situation before Friday’s game against the Boston Red Sox. “(his evaluation) showed a tear on his imaging,” Snitker said. ”He’ll consult with the physicians or doctors and they’ll decide what the next step is.”
The Braves are awaiting further evaluation to determine the best course of action, including whether Smith-Shawver will require Tommy John surgery, a procedure that could sideline him for an extended period.
Before exiting Thursday’s game, Smith-Shawver gave up a two-run homer to Rafael Marchán and was struck on the ankle by a line drive off the bat of Bryson Stott. He attempted to continue but left after throwing only four pitches to Trea Turner.
This season, Smith-Shawver has pitched 44 1/3 innings over nine starts, posting a 3-2 record with a 3.86 ERA, 42 strikeouts, and 21 walks. His emergence as a reliable starting pitcher has been a meaningful boost for the Braves.
“It’s tough for all (young pitchers) when it happens,” Snitker said, acknowledging the setback for the young pitcher.”Especially where he was, feeling good about himself and throwing good.”
What’s next
smith-Shawver will consult with doctors to determine the best treatment plan. The Braves will need to adjust their pitching rotation as they await news on his potential return.