Atlanta rookie pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver left Thursday’s doubleheader opener against the Philadelphia Phillies after struggling with a strained right elbow. The 22-year-old threw a warmup pitch before wincing in pain and exiting the game.
Manager Brian Snitker described the situation as “not looking good” and said Smith-Shawver would be returning to Atlanta for further evaluation. The injury occurred when Smith-Shawver took a 96.6 mph line drive off his right ankle, which also caused him to appear to say “pop” towards Snitker.
Smith-Shawver was placed on the 15-day injured list and had a record of 3-2 with a 3.86 ERA in nine starts and 44 1/3 innings, striking out 42 and walking 21. In a related move, right-hander Michael Petersen was recalled from Triple-A Gwinnett.
Source: https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/45379571/aj-smith-shawver-leaves-braves-game-elbow-injury