For the last few days, everyone wondered how the Atlanta Braves would handle the AJ Smith-Shawver decision. It was clear that the 23-year-old starter was ready to come back to the big leagues, and it was clear that the Braves were ready to bring him back up, but the biggest question was who was getting dropped from the roster to bring him back up.
On Tuesday morning, the Braves finally announced their decision. However, instead of optioning one of their relievers with options or designating newly recalled reliever Ray Kerr for assignment, the Braves opted to make the tough decision to cut struggling reliever Tyler Kinley.
The #Braves today recalled RHP AJ Smith-Shawver to Atlanta and designated RHP Tyler Kinley for assignment.
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) August 18, 2026
Braves designate Tyler Kinley for assignment after AJ Smith-Shawver's return
When the Braves re-signed Kinley to a one-year deal with an option for 2027, it seemed like a savvy move. Kinley had pitched well for the Braves down the strecth in 2025, and for $4.5 million, it seemed like a steal.
Kinley started the season off quite well, as he compiled 14 innings and allowed just 2 earned runs through the end of April. Unfortunately, since then Kinley hasn't found much success. Since May 1, the righty has a 5.34 ERA and 6.67 FIP. After returning from a brief IL stint at the end of June, he has a 13.50 ERA and 13.58 FIP. In this stretch, he's completed a full inning in just nine of his 18 outings.
It's unfortunate for both Kinley and the Braves, but the righty being the odd one out was ultimately the right decision considering his prolonged struggles. While the Braves haven't revealed their full plans for AJ Smith-Shawver and their rotation, the club did announce that he will start on Wednesday, which will give their ace Chris Sale extra rest and line the lefty up to face both the Brewers and Dodgers over the next week.
Smith-Shawver made a brief cameo this season at the end of July, throwing 4.1 innings and allowing 2 runs in his first big league outing after having Tommy John surgery last season. In the minors this year, he has a 1.57 ERA and a 2.58 FIP in seven games.
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