Catcher Kevan Smith makes first start for Braves

Veteran Kevan Smith is set to make his first start for the Braves on Friday night against the Pirates. The Braves acquired Smith, 32, on Wednesday from the Rays for cash considerations. Smith was batting seventh and was catching starter Ian Anderson, who carried a no-hitter into the seventh inning in his previous outing.

It will be Smith’s first appearance with the Braves. He was 1-for-4 in three games with the Rays this season.

“He’s a veteran guy,” manager Brian Snitker said of Smith. “Caught a lot of really good pitchers in Tampa. He’s an established guy, so hopefully we get him a good matchup tonight with the left-hander (Tyler Anderson) and get him in the fold here.”

The Braves entered Friday at 20-24 after losing to the Pirates in extra innings Thursday. They were 3-1/2 games behind the Mets for first place in the National League East.

About the Author

Gabriel Burns

Gabriel Burns is a general assignment reporter and features writer for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. After four years on the Braves beat, he's expanded his horizons and covers all sports. You'll find him writing about MLB, NFL, NBA, college football and other Atlanta-centric happenings.

Key upcoming dates for the Braves

Quick look at some important dates in the next few weeks, and a reminder that the MLB All-Star Game will be played at Truist Park in July.

Sean Murphy talks latest injury. ‘Nothing to be frustrated at, stuff happens’

“As far as (late April) being the worst-case scenario, not too bad .... I have no control over (the injury happening). I can be frustrated, but nothing to be frustrated at ...

Drake Baldwin ‘confident’ if Braves need him to begin season

The Braves could use Baldwin, the team’s No. 1 prospect, as their starting catcher after Sean Murphy sustained a cracked rib that will cost him four to six weeks.

The Latest

Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC