Atlanta Braves right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver appears to have found a new role heading into the postseason.
Smith-Shawver has emerged as a potential bullpen weapon for Atlanta after showing the ability to deliver multiple innings in relief. Braves manager Walt Weiss has made it clear that the young right-hander is being considered for that role as the team prepares for October.
Harrison Smajovits reported the latest development on X, adding another layer to the Braves’ plans for their pitching staff.
The idea gained momentum after Smith-Shawver delivered two scoreless innings with four strikeouts against the Houston Astros on Sept. 20. His fastball reached 100.3 mph during the outing, showing the type of power that can play especially well in shorter appearances.
Smith-Shawver has also spent time rebuilding his workload after returning from Tommy John surgery. Atlanta recalled him from Triple-A in August and initially used him as another starting option while he continued to build up.
The Braves now have more reason to consider a different approach. MLB’s postseason roster projection lists Smith-Shawver as a potential one- or multi-inning reliever, giving manager Walt Weiss flexibility depending on how each game develops.
That flexibility could become particularly useful after Reynaldo López was placed on the injured list with right shoulder discomfort. Smith-Shawver helped cover multiple innings after López exited early in September, showing Atlanta already has experience using him in that capacity.
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The Braves have already clinched the NL East, giving them the final regular-season games to continue evaluating their pitching options. Smith-Shawver now has a chance to establish himself as a valuable part of the postseason bullpen.
For a 23-year-old returning from major elbow surgery, that would be quite a way to finish the year.
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