Without question, there have been plenty of rookies making their presence known throughout baseball this season. Take a look at all of the hype surrounding Elly, as an example. However, there is a rookie starting pitcher that fantasy managers may not be aware of. There’s no need to worry and no need to research his name. Read on, as this top sleeper starter introduction is about to change all of that.

This pitcher is about to make a splash this weekend and I wanted to get that word out to the masses as soon as possible. Without wasting another second, let’s dive into the pitcher that I am so excited about. As with all of my articles, debate and discussion are strongly encouraged.

Introducing Atlanta’s Newest Starter: AJ Smith-Shawver

To those not familiar, may I introduce you to the Atlanta Braves’ newest pitching phenom: AJ Smith-Shawver. Much like the Dodgers, Atlanta knows a thing or two about pitching, especially starting pitching. According to the Braves, Smith-Shawver will take the mound this weekend against the Washington Nationals. That fact alone may be enough to get him onto fantasy rosters throughout the land. There will be more on that to follow.

At this moment, it is not known if Smith-Shawver will take the mound Friday or Saturday. Either day doesn’t really matter. What is important is that whatever day it is, ensure that he is on the roster and in the starting lineup before the games begins for the day. Not to mention before someone else in your league grabs him before you do. Currently, his ownership percentage in ESPN leagues is 8.5 percent. Surely, that is due to change, and soon.

While this is his first big league start, it is not Smith-Shawver’s major league debut. He has already accomplished that, as he pitched 2.1 shutout innings against Arizona last Sunday. Most notable of that appearance is that it was on the road against a team leading their division. Additionally, the Diamondbacks are the fifth best offensive team in the majors. Smith-Shawver didn’t even allow them a single base hit. Further, he added three strikeouts while walking one.

Smith-Shawver’s Minor League Resume

When he was called up to the big leagues, Smith-Shawver was pitching lights out baseball. In seven starts covering 33 innings across the entirety of Atlanta’s minor league system, he posted a 1.09 ERA. Further, he allowed only 19 hits in those innings for a miniscule 5.2 H9, leading to an outstanding 0.939 WHIP. His 12.3 K9 was also elite. He will have to show that he can keep the BB under control. If he can accomplish that, we just might be looking at an elite, young, fantasy starter.

Smith-Shawver’s Weekend Opponent

As mentioned above, the first team to get a crack at Smith-Shawver as a starting pitcher is the Washington Nationals. To be sure, Washington’s offense looks nothing like Arizona’s. The Nationals are fourth in BA and first in fewest Ks. However, every other statistic tells a very bleak story. They are 18th in HR, 23rd in RBI, 28th in BB, 27th in SB, 22nd in SLG, 19th in OPS and 23rd in runs scored.

For the most part, Washington’s home is an above average hitter’s park. By contrast, Atlanta’s Truist Park is average to below average for hitters, especially when it comes to extra base hits. A bad offense in a pitcher’s park is, of course, a winning combination, both in real and fantasy baseball. Many managers are in need of a fantasy starter. If that is you, and the waiver wire is bare, check out, and then pick up Smith-Shawver, at least for this weekend. You’ll be glad you did.

The Final Word

Thank you for joining me for this top sleeper introduction edition! As always, I welcome any and all suggestions, comments and input from my readers. Let’s discuss! Follow me on twitter @kevin62wilsea. Please feel free to share this article. Be sure to turn to Belly Up Sports and Belly Up Fantasy Sports for all the MLB, NBA, NFL, NHL happenings and the latest sports news! The Sports Stove Fantasy Baseball Show will be live this coming Sunday night, and every Sunday during the season, at 8 eastern. Make sure to tune in on whatever social platform you use!