AJ Smith-Shawver Out for Season with Torn UCL Injury

ATLANTA, Ga. (AP) – Atlanta Braves pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver will miss the remainder of the 2025 season and likely most of 2026 due to a torn UCL in his right elbow. The team announced this update on Friday, a day after Smith-Shawver left his start against the Philadelphia Phillies in the third inning.

Initially placed on the 15-day injured list, Smith-Shawver was moved to the 60-day injured list after further evaluation indicated the severity of his injury. Manager Brian Snitker confirmed that Smith-Shawver felt a ‘pop’ in his elbow during the game.

In his last appearance on Thursday, the 22-year-old faced a difficult situation after taking a line drive off his ankle in the third inning. He had already allowed two earned runs and struck out one batter before departing the game. Smith-Shawver’s fastball averaged 97.1 mph, but his last pitch was clocked at 94.2 mph.

Smith-Shawver’s season record stands at 3-2 with a 3.86 ERA over nine starts, totaling 44⅓ innings pitched and 42 strikeouts. The Braves will now turn to left-handed pitcher Dylan Dodd to fill Smith-Shawver’s 40-man roster spot.

Right-hander Bryce Elder, who previously stepped in when All-Star pitcher Spencer Strider was injured this season, is expected to take Smith-Shawver’s place in the starting rotation. Elder will start on Sunday against the Boston Red Sox.

Atlanta’s pitching staff has struggled with injuries this season, including setbacks with Strider, who underwent UCL surgery last year. Smith-Shawver’s injury adds to the challenges the team faces as they approach the mid-season mark.

Following a tough first game loss to the Phillies, the Braves managed a comeback in the second game, winning 9-3.