JUST-IN: Braves Recall Top Experience Left Handed Pitcher As They Officially Lose Starter in Flurry Of Roster Moves After Brutal Philly Trip

 

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Braves Make Series of Roster Moves After Costly Injuries in Phillies Doubleheader

Just a day after a bruising doubleheader against the Phillies left three Braves players injured, Atlanta responded with a flurry of roster moves — five in total — including one that all but confirms troubling news for rookie pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver.

Left-hander Dylan Dodd was recalled after a brief but effective relief appearance in Thursday’s game, where he faced two batters and helped keep the Braves competitive. Atlanta also purchased the contract of outfielder José Azócar, who will now take over as the right-handed speed option off the bench.

Dylan Dodd

To clear space, Michael Petersen was optioned, and Stuart Fairchild was placed on the injured list with a dislocated finger.

But the most concerning update came with the news that Smith-Shawver was moved to the 60-day injured list, suggesting his elbow injury is serious. Although initial concerns centered around a comebacker that hit him earlier in the game, it was later reported that the 22-year-old felt a “pop” in his elbow. That likely means he’ll be sidelined until at least late July.

Petersen had initially been called up to replace Smith-Shawver, but the team opted to bring back Dodd, who had been the 27th man for Thursday’s doubleheader. This marks Dodd’s second stint with the big-league club in 2025. While his Triple-A ERA sits at 5.00, he boasts strong underlying metrics: 12 strikeouts per nine innings, a 1.5 walk rate, and an inflated .364 BABIP against him — suggesting some bad luck.

Dodd is expected to provide depth in the bullpen until the Braves decide how to fill Smith-Shawver’s rotation spot long term.

As for Azócar, he recently cleared waivers and elected free agency after a brief stint with the Mets, where he hit .278/.350/.278 in 20 plate appearances across 12 games. Though his signing hadn’t been publicly announced prior to today, he’ll now assume the bench role previously held by Fairchild.

The injuries only deepen the struggles of a Braves team that’s already had a frustrating 2025 season. With uncertainty looming around the rotation and bench depth, more roster changes could be on the way soon.