Smith-Shawver’s Stellar Performance Leads Braves to Victory

ATLANTA: In a captivating display, AJ Smith-Shawver nearly achieved a no-hitter on Monday night, guiding the Atlanta Braves to a 4-0 triumph against the Cincinnati Reds at Truist Park.

The young right-hander, aged 21, showcased his skill over seven innings, recording five strikeouts and issuing four walks in what was his eleventh major league start and fifth this season. He effectively threw 60 of his 99 pitches for strikes and achieved his first career outing into the eighth inning.

Matt Olson ignited the offense with an inside-the-park home run in the third inning. His hit brought home both Austin Riley and himself after Reds outfielder Tyler Callihan collided with the outfield wall while attempting to make the catch.

Callihan sustained a fractured left forearm during the collision and had to leave the game.

Nick Allen made a crucial defensive contribution for the Braves, fielding a sharply hit ground ball in the third inning, which helped maintain the no-hit bid.

Alex Verdugo and Austin Riley each added RBIs during the third-inning surge, providing the Braves with a comfortable lead.

Smith-Shawver’s bid for a no-hitter ended in the eighth inning when Santiago Espinal singled, marking the Reds’ only hit of the game. However, Espinal was quickly retired on a double play to end the inning.

Reliever Enyel De Los Santos finished the ninth inning, allowing one walk but securing the combined one-hitter, ensuring the win for Atlanta.

Brady Singer (4-2) suffered the loss for Cincinnati, surrendering four runs on seven hits across six innings.

The Braves and Reds are scheduled to play again Tuesday night for the second game of their four-game series.