Who is the Braves' closer? Why Atlanta is making Raisel Iglesias, Robert Suarez decision in bullpen

[ASFN Admin]

You must be registered for see images attach

Who is the Braves' closer? Why Atlanta is making Raisel Iglesias, Robert Suarez decision in bullpen originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

After a bumpy 2025 season, the Atlanta Braves brought in some reinforcements this offseason to try and avoid that same fate.

One of their most notable moves was signing free agent relief pitcher Robert Suarez. Suarez was the closer for the San Diego Padres last season.

Interestingly, though, the Braves' closer situation doesn't seem to be as straightforward as signing a strong closer and plugging him in to the ninth inning.

Instead, Raisel Iglesias is playing a part, too.

MORE: Big Papi's son has a special moment for the Red Sox

Who is the Braves' closer?​

As Opening Day approaches, Iglesias appears to have kept his closer job in Atlanta.

The Braves used Iglesias in the ninth inning last year, and everyone who covers the Braves has suggested that he will start the year in that same role.

The reliable website Closer Monkey, which monitors changes in teams' closer roles daily, also has Iglesias slotted in as the ninth-inning guy.

That leaves Suarez for the eighth inning.

It's a bit of a curious decision, with Iglesias aging while Suarez was the flashy new signing, but apparently Atlanta wants to keep things status quo with their veteran closer.

It's also ironic for Suarez. Last season, the Padres traded for superstar Mason Miller at the deadline, but they kept Suarez in his closer role while Miller got the eighth inning.

At least for now, Suarez finds himself on the other side of a similar setup. It's hard to think Atlanta will stick with it the whole season this way, but it's how it'll start.

More MLB news:​

• The contract reason Pirates are keeping Konnor Griffin in the minor leagues
• Juan Soto might lead MLB in a brand new stat
• Chase DeLauter's time has arrived for the Cleveland Guardians
• MLB's future of the shortstop position is immensely bright
• Do the Red Sox have a Garrett Crochet problem?
• Reds have lost a special Opening Day honor that was part of MLB history

Continue reading...