Braves Add Experienced Arm Wander Suero on Minor League Deal

The Atlanta Braves have bolstered their pitching depth by signing right-hander Wander Suero to a minor league contract, as reported by Matt Eddy of Baseball America. Suero, a client of Rep 1 Baseball, is expected to receive an invitation to major league spring training, giving him a chance to compete for a spot on the Braves' roster.

Suero, 33, joined the Astros on a minor league deal last winter and was briefly promoted to their major league roster in April. However, after just one appearance, he was outrighted back to Triple-A. He spent the majority of the 2023 season with the Sugar Land Space Cowboys, delivering a strong performance. Over 67 2/3 innings, Suero posted a 2.66 ERA, benefiting from a .238 batting average on balls in play and an 85.8% strand rate. His 24.8% strikeout rate was also a notable highlight of his season.

Suero has a solid background as an effective major league reliever, though his prime years are a bit behind him. From 2018 to 2020, he pitched 142 2/3 innings for the Washington Nationals, recording a 4.10 ERA, a 26.1% strikeout rate, and an 8.5% walk rate. During this period, Suero earned one save and 27 holds, showcasing his capability in high-leverage situations. However, his performance dipped significantly in 2021, with his ERA ballooning to 6.33, leading to his non-tendering after that season.

By adding Suero to their minor league system, the Braves are giving themselves a low-risk, potentially high-reward option. If Suero can recapture his earlier form, he could become a valuable piece in Atlanta's bullpen. His experience and past success in the majors provide a solid foundation for a comeback, and his recent Triple-A performance suggests he still has the ability to contribute effectively.