AJ Smith-Shawver (elbow) is close to facing hitters in a live batting practice session.

Smirh-Shawver has progressed to throwing high-intensity bullpen sessions and should be ready to face hitters at some point soon. The 23-year-old has been working his way back from last year’s Tommy John surgery. He’ll need a handful of rehab starts before he’s ready to return to Atlanta’s rotation, most likely after next month’s All-Star break.