AJ Smith-Shawver’s Return & Fantasy Outlook | Atlanta Braves News

Atlanta Braves News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 30, 2026 · 1m

AJ Smith-Shawver makes his return to the mound for the Braves after Tommy John surgery, tossing 4.1 innings against the Mets while striking out four and giving up two earned runs. His fastball started at 99 mph but dipped as the game went on, and his splitter—normally his key out pitch—struggled as Mets hitters avoided it outside the zone and crushed it when it was in. At just 21 and coming off 14 months of inactivity, some rust is expected, especially since his last start was also a doubleheader day game, mirroring Chris Sale’s recent outing. The real story? If he can regain his 98-99 mph…