Braves Recall Bryce Elder to Replace Injured Smith-Shawver in Rotation

The Atlanta Braves will recall right-hander Bryce Elder from Triple-A Gwinnett to start Sunday's game against the Boston Red Sox, filling the rotation spot left open by AJ Smith-Shawver's season-ending torn UCL. Elder, 26, has made eight starts this season with a 4.50 ERA and 1.25 WHIP over 44 innings, showing improvement after a difficult 2024 season marked by a 6.52 ERA. Previously sent down to make room for Kyle Wright Strider, Elder has demonstrated reliability in recent starts and is expected to remain with the Braves for the foreseeable future. While Elder is not considered a high-upside pitcher due to his ground-ball style and limited strikeout potential, he provides the Braves with a stable option amid injuries to their rotation. Smith-Shawver's recovery timeline depends on whether he opts for a UCL brace or Tommy John surgery, with a potential return ranging from 12 months to beyond the next season. The Braves are choosing experience with Elder over untested young arms as they navigate ongoing rotation challenges.