AJ Smith-Shawver nearly throws no-hitter as Braves secure shutout

In Atlanta, AJ Smith-Shawver, a 22-year-old rookie pitcher for the Atlanta Braves, showcased exceptional performance on May 5, 2025, as he carried a no-hitter into the eighth inning of a game against the Cincinnati Reds. Smith-Shawver dominated on the mound, allowing no hits until Santiago Espinal broke the no-hit bid with a single to center field. This marked a crucial moment for the Reds, as it provided them with their only hit of the game. Smith-Shawver's striking ability was evident as he struck out five batters and walked four over his eight innings pitched, demonstrating his growth as a pitcher in only his 11th major league start. The game itself was highlighted by a series of standout plays, most notably Matt Olson's inside-the-park home run in the third inning, which resulted in injury for Reds rookie Tyler Callihan as he collided with the outfield wall. The Braves' offense was further boosted by additional runs scored by Alex Verdugo and Austin Riley in the same inning, yielding a total of four runs. The Braves maintained control throughout the game, ultimately leading to a 4-0 victory, marking their second shutout of the season. Smith-Shawver's performance represented a potential turning point in his career as he sought to achieve the elusive no-hitter, a feat not accomplished by the Braves since Kent Mercker's no-hitter in 1994. His pitching not only aided in securing a win for the Braves but also allowed him to command respect within the league as a rising talent. His game stats showed meticulous pitch control as he threw 60 of his 99 pitches for strikes, showcasing both efficiency and skill. Each inning saw him managing the game, continuing to gain confidence as he faced multiple batters without allowing any hits. As the final inning unfolded, Enyel De Los Santos entered as a relief pitcher for the Braves, completing the game with a solid outing despite issuing a walk, sealing the victory and concluding Smith-Shawver's impressive run. The performance drew attention not only for its statistical significance but also for what it suggests about the future potential of Smith-Shawver as a key player for the Braves, who have shown their resilience as a competitive team early in the season. The game against the Reds stands out as a highlight moment for both Smith-Shawver personally and the Braves organization as a whole.