Braves RHP AJ Smith-Shawver undergoes Tommy John surgery

Field Level Media|published: Mon 9th June, 16:27 2025

MLB: Washington Nationals at Atlanta Braves

May 15, 2025; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver (32) pitches against the Washington Nationals during the first inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Atlanta Braves right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver underwent season-ending Tommy John surgery on Monday, the Braves announced via social media.

Dr. Keith Meister repaired the ulnar collateral ligament in Smith-Shawver's right elbow in Arlington, Texas.

Smith-Shawver, 22, will miss part or potentially all of the 2026 season as well, based on the typical timeline.

He felt something pop in his elbow during the third inning of his May 29 start at Philadelphia. Smith-Shawver opened the month at the other end of the spectrum when he took a no-hitter into the eighth inning on May 5 versus Cincinnati. He finished with a 1-hitter over eight innings and earned the win in a 4-0 final.

Smith-Shawver finished 3-2 with a 3.86 ERA in nine starts this season. He struck out 42 batters in 44 1/3 innings.

Still technically a rookie in 2025, he appeared in six games for Atlanta in 2023 and made one start in 2024.

--Field Level Media

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