Suárez Heads to Atlanta After Opting Out

In a significant shift for his career, Robert Suárez has officially signed with the Atlanta Braves after entering free agency. The Braves announced on Thursday that they have secured the star closer with a lucrative three-year, $45 million deal, as first reported by ESPN's Jeff Passan.

New Role for the Veteran Closer

Moving forward, Suárez is set to take on the role of setup man for the Braves, pitching before closer Raisel Iglesias. This new position marks a change from his previous role as the primary closer, which he excelled in with the San Diego Padres.

Impressive Stats and Past Performance

Suárez's departure from the Padres follows an outstanding season where he boasted a 2.97 ERA and a remarkable 0.90 WHIP, alongside a career-high 2.3 WAR. He led the National League with 40 saves, making him the second overall in baseball, showcasing his prowess on the mound with 75 strikeouts compared to just 16 walks over 69.2 innings pitched.

All-Star Recognition and Trade Rumors

His strong performance did not go unnoticed, earning him a second consecutive All-Star selection in 2025, stepping in as an injury replacement for fellow All-Star Chris Sale of the Braves. Prior to his signature move, Suárez's name circulated in trade talks as the Padres contemplated their roster, but they ultimately decided to retain him until he opted for free agency.

Aiming for Continued Success

At 34 years old, Robert Suárez aims to continue his successful trajectory in Atlanta, now as one of the premier eighth-inning arms in Major League Baseball. This strategic move signals not only a new chapter in his career but also adds depth to the Braves' bullpen as they prepare for the looming season.