CHICAGO — The Braves on Thursday announced they optioned Daysbel Hernández to Triple-A Gwinnett after Wednesday’s game as the move to bring up AJ Smith-Shawver, whom they chose to start Thursday’s series finale versus the Cubs at Wrigley Field.

This was not a surprise. Hernández seemed like the obvious candidate to be sent down.

The Braves appointed Hernández as the 27th man for Monday’s doubleheader, then recalled him Tuesday. He served them well over these few days: He did not allow an earned run over two innings across two appearances – one Monday, the other Tuesday. By pitching, he helped keep the high-leverage relievers fresh.

In a 3-0 victory over the Cubs on Thursday, Smith-Shawver pitched 4 1/3 scoreless innings. He struck out four batters and walked two of them.

“That kid’s got a bright future,” manager Brian Snitker said.

The Braves haven’t yet announced their starting pitcher for Friday’s series opener in Pittsburgh.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Danny Young, 31, was with the Braves organization in 2022 and 2023, making eight major-league appearances. (Jason Getz/AJC 2023)

Credit: Jason Getz / Jason.Getz@ajc.com

Featured

Ja’Quon Stembridge, shown here in July at the Henry County Republican Party monthly meeting, recently stepped from his position with the Georgia GOP. (Jenni Girtman for the AJC)

Credit: Jenni Girtman