Braves could be getting a dominant bullpen weapon back just in time

Braves could be getting a dominant bullpen weapon back just in time originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Atlanta Braves could be getting one of their most effective relievers back before the end of the season.

Robert Suarez is expected to begin throwing bullpen sessions soon as he continues working his way back from right arm inflammation. While Atlanta has yet to establish a firm return date, Suarez’s progress has kept open the possibility of a late-season return.

And based on what Suarez accomplished before going down, getting him back would be significant.

The 35-year-old has been dominant in his first season with Atlanta, posting a 4-0 record with a 0.56 ERA, four saves and 26 strikeouts across 31 appearances. Suarez has allowed just 21 hits and six walks over 32 innings, producing an impressive 0.84 WHIP. 

He surrendered only two earned runs and one home run before landing on the injured list. 

Suarez hasn’t pitched since June 19, when he worked 1⅓ scoreless innings against the Milwaukee Brewers. Atlanta initially described his issue as forearm soreness before placing him on the injured list with inflammation. An MRI provided encouraging news, showing no ligament damage or structural changes. 

Now the focus is getting him back on a mound.

Bullpen sessions will provide Atlanta with a better indication of how close Suarez is to facing hitters. If he responds well, the next steps could include live batting practice and potentially a rehabilitation assignment before activation.

There is little reason for the Braves to rush the process.

Suarez’s numbers demonstrate how valuable he can be when healthy. His ability to handle high-leverage innings provides another late-game option and could help shorten games down the stretch.

Before joining Atlanta, Suarez established himself as one of baseball’s more reliable late-inning relievers with San Diego. He recorded 40 saves in 2025 and entered this season with extensive closing experience. 

Atlanta doesn’t necessarily need him to immediately resume a full workload.

If Suarez can return healthy and regain his command, even a limited role could strengthen the bullpen.

For now, his comeback remains a work in progress.

But after producing a 0.56 ERA through his first 31 appearances, Suarez has already shown what he can provide.

The Braves are hoping they’ll get another opportunity to use it before the season ends.

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