The Atlanta Braves are 27-37 entering June 9, which is not what was expected for a team with lofty expectations this season.
Although the Braves did get superstar Ronald Acuna Jr. back, they are now without a key starting pitcher. AJ Smith-Shawver suffered an injury in his most recent start on May 29 against the Philadelphia Phillies. He was then placed on the 15-day IL and then moved to the 60day IL with a torn UCL.
On Monday, the Braves announced the official diagnosis for Smith-Shawver.
"RHP AJ Smith-Shawver today underwent Tommy John surgery to reconstruct the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow, performed by Dr. Keith Meister in Arlington, TX. He will miss the remainder of the 2025 season."
Smith-Shawver had a 3-2 record with a 3.86 ERA so far this season and the 22-year-old was having a strong season.
Braves manager Brian Snitker spoke about the tough break at the end of May, per ESPN.
"It's tough for all (young pitchers) when it happens," Snitker said. "Especially where he was, feeling good about himself and throwing good."
Smith-Shawver dazzled on May 5 with an eight-inning shutout against the Cincinnati Reds, but this injury is a big blow to the Braves and thr young righthander.
Now, the Braves have a hole to fill, and maybe they will explore the trade market to fill the void.
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