MILWAUKEE — In significant developments for the Atlanta Braves’ pitching lineup, AJ Smith-Shawver has undergone Tommy John surgery, and Craig Kimbrel has opted for free agency.
Smith-Shawver’s procedure was performed by Dr. Keith Meister in Arlington, Texas. The surgery entailed reconstructive efforts on the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow, sidelining the rookie right-hander for the remainder of this season and potentially impacting the start of the next. Braves’ manager, Brian Snitker, confirmed the successful outcome of the surgery before his team ended a seven-game losing streak with a 7-1 win against the Milwaukee Brewers. “It was a complete Tommy John, and now he starts the long road of rehab,” Snitker remarked, expressing optimism about his promising future despite the current setback.
Meanwhile, Kimbrel has chosen to enter the free agency market two days post the Braves’ decision to designate the accomplished nine-time All-Star reliever for assignment. The team had intended to assign Kimbrel outright to its Triple-A affiliate in Gwinnett.
The Braves initially announced the injury to Smith-Shawver on May 30, following a 5-4 game loss to the Philadelphia Phillies, during which he experienced a “pop” in his elbow. Before his injury, the 22-year-old had shown promise with a 3-2 record and a 3.86 ERA across nine starts, accumulating 42 strikeouts over 44 1/3 innings.
Kimbrel, who boasts a record of 186 saves during his tenure with Atlanta — the most in franchise history — had attempted a comeback with the Braves. The veteran closer played for Atlanta during his first five major league seasons, from 2011 to 2014, during which he secured four consecutive All-Star nominations. His recent performances for the Braves included a 1-1 record with a 2.00 ERA in 18 appearances combined for Gwinnett and Double-A Columbus this season, preceding a call-up to the main squad. However, following his single scoreless inning appearance during a 10-inning defeat to San Francisco, the Braves decided to reassign him.
Kimbrel is seeking to rebound his career after a challenging 2024 season that he spent with the Baltimore Orioles. The 37-year-old ended the previous year with a 7-5 record, a 5.33 ERA, and was released in September after securing 23 saves. His journey now continues as he explores free agency, emboldened to find fresh opportunities and rejuvenate his standing in professional baseball.