The Atlanta Braves made yet another whirlwind roster move Tuesday, recalling top prospect AJ Smith-Shawver to start against the Colorado Rockies and designating right-hander Ian Anderson for assignment—just two days after claiming him off waivers from the Angels.
In true Braves fashion, the club essentially said “hey Ian,” and “bye Ian” in the same breath.
The move continues Atlanta’s recent pattern of rapid-fire pitching decisions, with one fan joking on social media that the Braves’ travel agent might be “the busiest person in professional sports.” Another fan didn’t mince words: “I am beginning to believe this front office no longer knows what they are doing.”
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There’s still a chance Atlanta clears Anderson through waivers this time and stashes him at Triple-A, where he could get regular innings as he continues to work his way back from elbow surgery. That option wasn’t possible earlier in the spring when he was out of minor league options and had yet to pass through waivers.
Anderson, 26, was a former postseason hero for Atlanta in 2021 but has struggled to regain form. He was roughed up in brief duty with the Angels before being let go last week.
Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker (43) argues with umpires against the Washington Nationals in the second inning at Truist Park.Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Meanwhile, all eyes turn to Smith-Shawver. The 21-year-old flamethrower showed flashes in his first three starts this season—racking up whiffs—but also struggled with control, walking eight. The Braves are hoping he can give them five solid innings in the hitter-friendly conditions of Coors Field and stake a claim to the rotation, at least until Spencer Strider returns from the injured list.
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With the Braves still trying to stabilize their pitching depth amid injuries and inconsistency, this latest shuffle may not be the last. But one thing is clear: the pressure is mounting on the next man up.
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