The Atlanta Braves announced Wednesday that they have reinstated right‑handed reliever Robert Suarez from the 60‑day injured list. Suarez, 35, missed his first major‑league action since June 19 because of a right forearm strain and right elbow inflammation.
Performance before the injury
Before landing on the injured list, Suarez was a dominant force out of the Braves’ bullpen. He posted a 0.56 earned run average (ERA) over 31 relief appearances, recording four saves and a perfect 4‑0 win‑loss record. His work helped stabilize Atlanta’s late‑inning pitching, a key factor in the team’s competitive standing this season.
Minor‑league tune‑up
Suarez earned his first game action since the injury on Sunday with a scoreless inning for Triple‑A Gwinnett, allowing just one hit and striking out a batter. The brief outing served as a tune‑up before his return to the major‑league roster.
Contract and career highlights
Atlanta signed Suarez to a three‑year, $45 million contract in December, banking on his proven track record as a closer. He earned All‑Star honors in each of his two seasons with the San Diego Padres and led the National League with 40 saves last year. Over his career, Suarez has compiled a 26‑13 record, 81 saves, a 2.60 ERA and 245 strikeouts in 242 innings across 237 regular‑season games.
Roster move for Owen Murphy
In a corresponding transaction, the Braves optioned 22‑year‑old right‑hander Owen Murphy to Triple‑A Gwinnett. Murphy, a 2022 first‑round pick, made his major‑league debut on July 6 and currently holds a 0‑1 record with a 6.00 ERA in five appearances, including one start.
What’s next for Atlanta’s bullpen?
Suarez’s return gives Braves manager Brian Snitker a reliable late‑inning option as the team pushes toward the postseason. With Suarez back, Atlanta can continue to rely on a high‑leverage arm to protect leads and close out games, a critical component of any championship‑contending roster.
Fans can look forward to seeing Suarez back in the Braves’ uniform at Truist Park, where his experience and composure are expected to bolster the team’s chances in the final stretch of the season.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
