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Braves announce roster move after AJ Smith-Shawver injury

Originally posted on SportsTalkATL | By Chase Irle | Last updated May 29, 2025 6:14 PM ET

The Braves lost Game 1 of their double-header to the Phillies Thursday afternoon, and it looks like they have lost one of their bright young arms for the season as well. AJ Smith-Shawver exited the game in the third inning after saying he felt a pop in his elbow. Brian Snitker confirmed the outlook does not look good, and now we sit and wait for what feels like an obvious conclusion.

If Smith-Shawver pitches again this season, it will be a surprise, and the Braves have already placed him on the 15-day IL as he awaits further testing. In a corresponding move, they’ve called up Michael Petersen.

The #Braves today placed RHP AJ Smith-Shawver on the 15-day injured list with a strained right elbow and recalled RHP Michael Petersen to Atlanta.

— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) May 29, 2025

Peterson was already with the club in Philadelphia, so he’s unlikely to be a long-term option. That spot belongs to Bryce Elder, who was pitching pretty well for the Braves before Spencer Strider returned from his injury. In his last five starts for the major-league club, Elder owns a 3.10 ERA and has not allowed more than three runs in any outing.

This article first appeared on SportsTalkATL and was syndicated with permission.

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