The Atlanta Braves’ rollercoaster of a start to the 2025 season has taken another confusing turn, as the club made a head-scratching roster decision that has fans venting online. On April 12, following a narrow 5-4 win over the Tampa Bay Rays, Atlanta optioned right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver to Triple-A Gwinnett. In his place, the Braves recalled reliever Michael Petersen — a move that’s raised more than a few eyebrows.
Smith-Shawver’s demotion comes after a serviceable start in which the 22-year-old allowed two earned runs on six hits and struck out seven over five innings.