Smith-Shawver to return in Game 1 of doubleheader vs. Mets (source) - MLB.com

What the report says

MLB.com reported from New York that the Atlanta Braves are set to bring back right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver for the first game of a doubleheader against the Mets. The report, published under the headline that Smith-Shawver would return in Game 1, frames the move as an immediate step to reinforce Atlanta’s starting rotation after an elbow-related absence.

The same MLB.com snippet says the Braves are also monitoring potential trade options, including Tarik Skubal, Logan Webb and other high-end starters who could be available before Monday’s Trade Deadline. That suggests Atlanta is weighing both internal help and external additions as it assesses its pitching needs for the stretch run.

Smith-Shawver’s return matters because rotation depth is often critical during doubleheaders, when clubs must cover extra innings in a compressed schedule. If he is healthy enough to start, he gives the Braves another option while the front office evaluates whether the cost of acquiring a frontline starter on the trade market is justified.

The available source text does not provide Smith-Shawver’s recent rehab details, his expected pitch count, the Braves’ full pitching plan for the doubleheader, or whether any trade talks are advanced. Those details would need confirmation from the full MLB.com article or subsequent team updates.