Crystal Pouncey
Oct 08, 2023 - 03:05

Braves Add Daysbel Hernández to NLDS Roster, Phillies Go with Michael Lorenzen

The Atlanta Braves have made surprising roster moves for the NL Division Series, adding hard-throwing reliever Daysbel Hernández and top prospect AJ Smith-Shawver.

The Atlanta Braves have made some unexpected changes to their roster ahead of Game 1 of the NL Division Series against the Philadelphia Phillies. They have added hard-throwing reliever Daysbel Hernández and top prospect AJ Smith-Shawver to their lineup. This comes after the news that Kyle Wright, a 21-game winner last year, will not be available due to shoulder issues and a setback in his recovery. Wright is expected to undergo surgery and will likely miss the entire next season.

The Braves have also decided not to include 40-year-old reliever Jesse Chavez in their roster. Despite posting an impressive 1.56 ERA in 36 appearances, Chavez's three-month absence due to a leg injury and his inability to perform at his best convinced the Braves to leave him out of the NLDS.

On the other hand, the Philadelphia Phillies have made only one change to their 26-man roster from the wild-card round. Right-hander Michael Lorenzen has replaced infielder Weston Wilson, giving the Phillies an additional pitcher.

The most surprising addition to the Braves' roster is Daysbel Hernández. Although he has only made four appearances in the big leagues, he showcased his talent and effectiveness during his rapid rise through the minor leagues this season. With a cumulative 2.19 ERA and 36 strikeouts in 24 2/3 innings, Hernández impressed the Braves during their intrasquad games.

AJ Smith-Shawver is another rising star who has quickly made his way to the big leagues. In just his third professional season, the 20-year-old right-hander appeared in six games for the Braves, recording a 1-0 record with a 4.97 ERA.

The Braves have chosen to have a total of 12 pitchers in their roster, along with an additional infielder, Vaughn Grissom. Grissom, who was initially expected to start at shortstop, spent most of the season in Triple-A, where he showcased his skills with a .330 batting average, eight home runs, and 61 RBIs.

Overall, the Braves have made strategic roster changes to strengthen their lineup for the NL Division Series. With the addition of Hernández and Smith-Shawver, they aim to overcome the absence of Kyle Wright and secure a victory against the Philadelphia Phillies.