The Atlanta Braves’ unpredictable start to the 2025 season took another puzzling twist when the team made a roster move that’s left many fans scratching their heads. After edging out a 5-4 win over the Tampa Bay Rays on April 12, the Braves optioned right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver to Triple-A Gwinnett. In his place, they called up reliever Michael Petersen — a decision that’s stirred up plenty of online backlash.
Smith-Shawver’s demotion came after a decent showing in which the 22-year-old gave up two earned runs on six hits with seven strikeouts over five innings. While it wasn’t a dominant outing, he displayed promising swing-and-miss ability and leaves with a 4.61 ERA over three starts — respectable, especially given Atlanta’s ongoing pitching issues.
What’s really fueling fan frustration, however, is the choice to keep Bryce Elder on the roster instead. Elder, an All-Star in the past, has struggled significantly this season. His most recent start on April 11 saw him tagged for nine hits and five runs in six innings against Tampa Bay. Overall, he holds a troubling 7.20 ERA in two starts, with a concerning 3.6 home runs allowed per nine innings.
Could the Brave’s latest roster move indicate a Spencer Strider return?
Bryce Elder’s current struggles mark a sharp decline from his 2023 form, when he posted a strong 12-4 record with a 3.81 ERA. Since then, consistency has been elusive. His 2024 campaign was marked by erratic performances and frequent trips between the Majors and Triple-A, and things have only gotten rockier in 2025.
That’s why the Braves’ latest roster move — calling up Michael Petersen, a reliever with no MLB experience, while sending AJ Smith-Shawver back to Triple-A — has left fans frustrated. Many believe Elder should’ve been the one optioned, citing Smith-Shawver’s youth, higher ceiling, and more encouraging recent outings.
Still, this move may not last long. Spencer Strider, currently rehabbing, seems close to rejoining the team. If he’s ready, Elder could soon find himself out of the rotation. Looking ahead to Atlanta’s series against Toronto, the Braves have penciled in Grant Holmes for April 14, Spencer Schwellenbach for April 15, and a “TBA” for April 16 — a likely landing spot for Strider.
For now, the Braves appear to be betting on Elder’s experience to carry him through. But with the team sitting at 4-10 and last in the NL East, patience is wearing thin. If Elder doesn’t turn things around quickly, the calls for change will only get louder.
