Braves Option AJ Smith-Shawver, Call Up Michael Petersen — Spencer Strider’s Return Looming?

The Atlanta Braves made an intriguing roster move Sunday morning that could have ripple effects in the coming week: AJ Smith-Shawver has been optioned to the minors, and in a corresponding move, right-handed reliever Michael Petersen was recalled to the big-league roster.

Smith-Shawver Sent Down to Refine Command

Smith-Shawver’s 2025 campaign has been a mixed bag through three starts. While the 21-year-old has showcased strikeout potential with 17 punchouts across 13.2 innings, he’s also been tagged for 19 hits, 8 walks, and a 4.61 ERA. Control has been a consistent issue, and the Braves appear to be prioritizing development over sticking with an inconsistent arm at the major league level.

Sending him down now gives him the chance to sharpen his command and recalibrate before what could be a longer-term role with the big club later this season.

Michael Petersen Joins the Pen as a Fresh Arm

Coming up in Smith-Shawver’s place is Michael Petersen, a recent acquisition from the Angels on April 1st. Petersen pitched for both the Dodgers and Marlins in 2024, tossing 19 2/3 innings with a 5.95 ERA across 16 appearances. While the numbers don’t jump off the page, he offers Atlanta a fresh bullpen arm on a road trip that could test the team’s pitching depth.

This marks Petersen’s first call-up with the Braves since joining the organization and gives the club flexibility while they monitor workload across the staff.

All Eyes on Strider’s Status

But perhaps the most compelling subplot of this move is what it could signal for the Braves’ starting rotation.

With Smith-Shawver headed to the minors, a spot in the rotation is now open — and speculation is swirling that Spencer Strider could be on the verge of his 2025 debut. Strider, recovering from offseason elbow inflammation, has been progressing well and could slot back into the rotation as soon as later this week.

If Strider is indeed ready, the Braves would be getting a major boost — both in terms of innings and top-end talent.

What to Watch Going Forward

The Braves will likely continue to manage their staff carefully throughout April, especially with rotation depth being tested early. Expect more fluidity between Gwinnett and Atlanta as the front office works to keep arms fresh and effective.

For now, Petersen gets the nod, Smith-Shawver gets a breather to reset, and the Strider Watch officially begins.