AJ Smith-Shawver Gets the Ball Tonight in Colorado as Braves Shake Up Rotation

Apr 12, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; Atlanta Braves starting pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver (32) talks with catcher Sean Murphy (12) at the end of the third inning. against the Tampa Bay Rays at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

The Atlanta Braves made a move earlier today, recalling right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver from Triple-A Gwinnett and naming him the starter for tonight’s game against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. In a corresponding move, Ian Anderson was designated for assignment.

Smith-Shawver, 22, is set to make his fourth start of the season for the Braves. Through his first three starts, he's posted an 0–2 record with a 4.61 ERA over 13.2 innings, striking out 17 and walking eight. His last big-league outing came on April 12 in Tampa Bay, where he went five innings, allowed two runs on six hits, and struck out seven. After that start, Atlanta optioned him back to Gwinnett to get some extra work in.

Down in Triple-A, Smith-Shawver made two appearances, going 0-1 with a 4.82 ERA. In his most recent outing against the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, he lasted 3.2 innings, allowing two runs on four hits and striking out five. While the results weren’t eye-popping, he showed flashes of the raw stuff that made him such a fast riser through the system a year ago.

Tonight offers Smith-Shawver a real chance to settle back in at the big-league level. And for what it’s worth, Colorado might not be the worst spot to do it. Even with Coors Field’s reputation for offense, the Rockies are one of the weaker teams in the league this year — presenting an opportunity for AJ to find some rhythm and confidence.

What This Move Means for AJ Smith-Shawver

With Spencer Strider and Reynaldo López still working their way back from injuries, there’s an open lane for someone like Smith-Shawver to solidify a spot in the rotation, at least temporarily. Tonight’s start could be the beginning of a longer runway if he handles it well. The Braves are looking for consistency at the back end of their staff, and with Smith-Shawver’s upside, this is a big moment to take a step forward.

What This Move Means for Ian Anderson

For Ian Anderson, it’s a tough moment. After being reclaimed off waivers from the Angels, the Braves hope Anderson could start trending back toward the form he showed during the 2021 postseason run. However, Anderson has posted an 11.57 ERA across 9.1 innings this season for the Angels, all out of the bullpen.

By designating him for assignment, the Braves will likely attempt to outright him back to Triple-A Gwinnett if he clears waivers. If successful, it gives Anderson a chance to keep working without occupying a 40-man roster spot. There’s still belief in his talent, but it’s clear that a reset is needed.

Final Thoughts

Tonight's start is an important one for Smith-Shawver, both for himself and for the Braves. Atlanta is searching for some stability in the rotation while dealing with injuries, and Smith-Shawver has the tools to provide it. If he can take a step forward tonight, he could very well earn himself a longer look moving forward.

First pitch is set for 8:40 PM ET from Coors Field as Atlanta looks to build on their recent momentum.