The Atlanta Braves were dealt a gut punch this week when it was announced that promising young pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver had undergone Tommy John surgery. At just 22 years old, Smith-Shawver was turning heads early this season with the kind of performances that make fans and coaches alike dream about the future. Now, that future is on pause.
Injury Derails Promising Rookie Campaign
Smith-Shawver’s season was shaping up to be a breakout. He came into 2025 still holding rookie status and wasted no time showing he belonged. With a 2.33 ERA and 38 2/3 innings of work under his belt, he looked every bit like a pitcher ready to anchor Atlanta’s rotation for years to come. He had the poise, the power, and the command, all the makings of a future star.
But things took a turn in late May. During a start against the Nationals, Smith-Shawver was pulled after just 2 2/3 innings. What followed was every pitcher’s worst fear: he admitted to feeling a “pop” in his elbow. Despite hopes it was a minor issue, the reality hit hard. The team moved him quickly to the 60-day injured list, and not long after, the diagnosis was confirmed: a torn ulnar collateral ligament.
Tommy John will miss the remainder of 2025 and probably most of 2026 due to surgery. Although recovery rates have increased over time, each case is unique, and the journey back is a long and difficult one. It’s a mental and physical challenge for a young musician who has just discovered his rhythm.
RHP AJ Smith-Shawver today underwent Tommy John surgery to reconstruct the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow, performed by Dr. Keith Meister in Arlington, TX. He will miss the remainder of the 2025 season.
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) June 9, 2025
This is a significant obstacle for the Braves, not just a personal setback for Smith-Shawver. Atlanta’s pitching depth is being overworked, as Spencer Strider is still not fully recovered from shoulder surgery, and Reynaldo Lopez is still rehabilitating. Although Chris Sale has performed admirably, he cannot lead the rotation by himself. The cushion is gone, but young arms like Spencer Schwellenbach and Bryce Elder are filling in.
Braves To Look Ahead Without the Rookie
The Braves will now have to put together innings in any way they can, whether it be through midseason deals, unexpected standout performances, or Triple-A possibilities like Davis Daniel. However, Smith-Shawver remains at the center of the larger picture, despite the immediate rush.
The group has faith in him. While he recovers, he will continue to receive major league service time and pay, and he still has a chance to play a significant role in Atlanta’s rotation going forward. The potential remains the same, even though the route is now longer and possibly bumpier.
This moment hurts Braves supporters. However, Smith-Shawver’s narrative isn’t coming to an end; rather, it’s beginning a new chapter with time and encouragement.