Braves make surprising roster decision ahead of AJ Smith-Shawver's return

Atlanta Braves pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Braves make surprising roster decision ahead of AJ Smith-Shawver's return

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Aug 18, 2026 12:37 PM ET

The Atlanta Braves need pitching help in a major way.

The team knew it would likely be getting help with the return of AJ Smith-Shawver on Tuesday, but that also meant a corresponding move would need to be made.

While no inclination was given on who would possibly be optioned to Triple-A or designated for assignment, the move that was made by Atlanta's front office was a bit surprising.

Tyler Kinley has been designated for assignment

In an announcement from the Braves official X account on Tuesday, it was revealed that right-handed reliever Tyler Kinley had been designated for assignment.

Kinley was acquired by Atlanta from the Colorado Rockies ahead of the 2025 MLB trade deadline and had made 73 appearances out of the Braves bullpen in that span.

The #Braves today recalled RHP AJ Smith-Shawver to Atlanta and designated RHP Tyler Kinley for assignment.
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) August 18, 2026

Tyler Kinley had done mostly good work for the Braves

Kinley was stellar for Atlanta in his 24 appearances last season, posting a 0.72 ERA with 22 strikeouts and just six walks across 25 innings pitched.

His 2026 season hadn't been nearly as good, as he's posted a 4.01 ERA through 49 appearances. He has, though, been successful of late, posting a 2.08 ERA over the last 30 days.

What will AJ Smith-Shawver's role be?

There had been some speculation as to whether or not Smith-Shawver would make his return as a starter or a reliever but that has now been cleared up.

Braves beat writer Mark Bowman reported that Smith-Shawver will start Wednesday for Atlanta in its series finale against the Minnesota Twins.

He'll be expected to be a key rotation piece for the Braves as they compete to secure one of the top two records in the National League and earn a first-round bye in the postseason.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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