AJ Smith-Shawver Bio
AJ Smith-Shawver is an American professional baseball pitcher for the Atlanta Braves of Major League Baseball (MLB). He made his MLB debut in 2023. Raised in Colleyville, Texas, he attended Colleyville Heritage High School where he excelled in both baseball and football. After being drafted by the Braves in 2021, he quickly climbed through the minor leagues, showcasing impressive skills on the mound. In 2023, he became the youngest Braves pitcher to win a game since 1990, marking a promising start to his professional career.
Early Life and Background
AJ Smith-Shawver was born on November 20, 2002, in Colleyville, Texas. He was raised by his mother, Laurie, and his stepfather, Jason. Growing up, AJ showed a strong aptitude for sports, particularly baseball and football. At Colleyville Heritage High School, he was a standout athlete, serving as the starting quarterback for the football team and also playing as a third baseman for the baseball team. His performance in high school earned him recognition, including All-Area honors by the Dallas Morning News.
In addition to his athletic achievements, AJ committed to play both college baseball and college football at Texas Tech University. However, he ultimately chose to pursue a professional baseball career after being drafted by the Atlanta Braves in 2021.
Path to Baseball
AJ Smith-Shawver’s journey to professional baseball began when he was selected by the Atlanta Braves in the seventh round of the 2021 Major League Baseball draft. He signed with the Braves, foregoing his commitment to Texas Tech, and received an over-slot signing bonus of $997,500. After signing, he was assigned to the Rookie-level Florida Complex League Braves, where he made four appearances. During the 2022 season, he played for the Single-A Augusta GreenJackets, focusing on developing his pitching skills, particularly a slider.
In 2023, Smith-Shawver began the season with the Rome Braves at the High-A level, where he made three starts and threw fourteen scoreless innings with 23 strikeouts. His impressive performance led to a promotion to the Mississippi Braves, where he continued to excel before making his Triple-A debut with the Gwinnett Stripers.
AJ Smith-Shawver Career
Early Career (2021-2022)
AJ Smith-Shawver’s professional career began in 2021 when he was drafted by the Atlanta Braves. After a successful stint in the Rookie-level Florida Complex League, he spent the 2022 season with the Augusta GreenJackets. His ability to develop his pitching skills quickly caught the attention of Braves management.
During his time in the minor leagues, Smith-Shawver showcased his potential, leading to his promotion to higher levels of competition. His performances in the minors set the stage for his eventual debut in Major League Baseball.
Breakthrough (2023)
AJ Smith-Shawver made his Major League Baseball debut on June 4, 2023, against the Arizona Diamondbacks. In his debut, he pitched 2+1⁄3 innings of relief, recording three strikeouts and one walk. His first start came shortly after, on June 9, against the Washington Nationals, where he yielded two unearned runs over 5+1⁄3 innings.
On June 15, 2023, Smith-Shawver earned his first win, becoming the youngest Braves pitcher to win a game since Steve Avery in 1990. This achievement marked a significant milestone in his young career and highlighted his potential as a future star for the Atlanta Braves.
Notable Works and Milestones
AJ Smith-Shawver’s signature work thus far includes his impressive debut season with the Atlanta Braves. His performance on the mound has garnered attention, and he has quickly become a player to watch in the league. His ability to earn a win at such a young age speaks to his talent and determination.
AJ Smith-Shawver Award Nominations
Throughout his career, AJ Smith-Shawver has yet to receive any formal award nominations, as he is still early in his professional journey.
AJ Smith-Shawver Awards Won
AJ Smith-Shawver has not yet won any awards in his professional career, but his promising start with the Atlanta Braves suggests that he may be a contender for future accolades.
AJ Smith-Shawver Family
AJ Smith-Shawver was raised by his mother, Laurie, and his stepfather, Jason. He has a close relationship with his family, who have supported him throughout his athletic career.
Personal Life
AJ Smith-Shawver is currently in a relationship with Josie Canseco, the daughter of former MLB star Jose Canseco. Their relationship has attracted media attention, particularly due to their backgrounds in sports and entertainment.
