The Braves are getting healthier (finally). AJ Minter returned to Atlanta at the beginning of the week; Ian Anderson made his first start above rookie ball, and Michael Harris II took a significant step towards returning to play. AJ Smith-Shawver also made his first rehab start.
The organization’s top prospect pitched two innings, surrendering one earned run, which was a solo home run, while punching four batters out with his fastball sitting in the mid to high 90s.
AJ Smith-Shawver first rehab start
2IP 1H 1ER 0BB 4K
FB: 95-98 pic.twitter.com/CqjrPSGvms— Gaurav (@gvedak) July 3, 2024
Don’t get me wrong, it’s a great thing all of these arms are getting healthy as they eye a return to the major league club. I still just can’t help but laugh at the situation that the Braves are dying for offensive help, a stark difference from years past when the team was begging for more pitching.
It’s certainly never a bad thing to have a surplus of talented pitchers. After all, a couple of bats at the deadline are much cheaper than starting pitching. Smith-Shawver will be vying for the final spot in the rotation, even with Spencer Schwellenbach looking the part of a major league starter already. That’s not even considering Ian Anderson making his way back. It’s a good problem to have if you’re Brian Snitker.
It’s very possible we see both AJ Smith-Shawver and Ian Anderson after the All-Star break.
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Zac BonDurant/Icon Sportswire
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