AJ Smith Shawver Forced to Have Surgery Shocking Anonymous Source Someone Inside the Braves Doesn’t Want Him Back

AJ Smith Shawver Faces Tommy John Surgery Ending His 2025 Season

AJ Smith Shawver, the talented young pitcher for the Atlanta Braves, has been forced to undergo Tommy John surgery after suffering a serious elbow injury. The procedure, performed by top specialist Dr. Keith Meister, will sideline Smith Shawver for at least 12 to 18 months, effectively ending his 2025 season. This news comes as a major blow to the Braves, who had high hopes for the 22-year-old’s development this year.

Smith Shawver’s injury occurred during a game on May 29, when he felt a sudden pop in his pitching elbow after being hit on the heel by a line drive. Despite trying to continue pitching, he had to leave the game early. MRI scans later confirmed a torn ulnar collateral ligament, requiring immediate surgery.

How the Braves Rotation Is Impacted by Smith Shawver’s Injury

Losing Smith Shawver creates a significant gap in the Braves’ starting rotation. With other key pitchers also dealing with injuries, Atlanta’s pitching staff is stretched thin. Manager Brian Snitker has expressed his disappointment but remains hopeful about Smith Shawver’s recovery and future contributions.

The Braves are now facing pressure to find solutions, possibly through trades or promoting talent from the minors, to stabilize their pitching as they try to improve their struggling 2025 record.

Inside the Braves Organization Drama Rumors Surface

Adding to the turmoil, an anonymous source close to the Braves has revealed shocking claims that “someone inside the Braves doesn’t want him back.” This unexpected statement has stirred speculation about internal conflicts or doubts regarding Smith Shawver’s place on the team once he recovers.

While the Braves organization has not officially addressed these rumors, the timing has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts, fueling questions about clubhouse dynamics and management decisions.

What This Means for AJ Smith Shawver’s Future

Despite the surgery and the rumors, Smith Shawver’s youth and talent give him a strong chance to bounce back. Tommy John surgery has become a common and often successful procedure for pitchers, with many returning to peak performance after rehabilitation.

Manager Snitker remains optimistic, emphasizing that this setback does not define Smith Shawver’s career and that he expects the pitcher to come back stronger.

Conclusion

AJ Smith Shawver’s forced surgery is a pivotal moment for both the player and the Atlanta Braves. The injury sidelines a key young talent during a critical season and raises questions about internal team issues following anonymous claims about his future. As Smith Shawver begins his long road to recovery, all eyes will be on how the Braves manage their pitching challenges and whether Smith Shawver can overcome the obstacles ahead to reclaim his role.