The Atlanta Braves could potentially welcome back one of their most dominant bullpen arms before the regular season comes to an end.
Robert Suarez is expected to begin throwing bullpen sessions soon as he continues his recovery from right arm inflammation.
Although Atlanta has not announced a specific timetable for his return, his steady progress has kept the door open for a possible late-season comeback.
If Suarez is able to return at full strength, it would be a major boost for the Braves, especially considering how effective he was before the injury.
The 35-year-old right-hander has been outstanding during his first season in Atlanta. Through 31 appearances, Suarez has gone 4-0 with a remarkable 0.56 ERA, four saves and 26 strikeouts.
He has surrendered only 21 hits and six walks over 32 innings while posting an excellent 0.84 WHIP.
Even more impressive, Suarez gave up just two earned runs and one home run before being placed on the injured list, establishing himself as one of Atlanta’s most dependable options in high-leverage situations.
Braves Receive Positive Robert Suarez Injury News
Suarez has been sidelined since June 19, when he pitched 1⅓ scoreless innings against the Milwaukee Brewers.
The Braves initially described the issue as forearm soreness before further evaluation revealed inflammation in his right arm.
Fortunately for Atlanta, an MRI brought encouraging news. The examination showed no ligament damage or structural abnormalities, giving Suarez and the Braves reason to believe he can eventually make his way back to the mound.
The next major step in his recovery will be beginning bullpen sessions. Those throwing sessions should give the Braves a better understanding of how Suarez’s arm is responding and how close he might be to facing hitters again.
If he handles the bullpen work without setbacks, Atlanta could eventually move him into live batting practice before considering a minor league rehabilitation assignment.
From there, the Braves would have to determine whether he is ready to return to the major league roster.
There is little reason for the organization to rush the process. With Suarez’s injury involving his throwing arm, Atlanta will want to make sure he is completely healthy before placing him back into high-pressure situations.
His performance earlier this season shows exactly why the Braves are eager to get him back.
Suarez has proven capable of handling important late-inning assignments, giving Atlanta another experienced option when games are on the line. A healthy return could provide the Braves with additional flexibility and help strengthen a bullpen that will be heavily relied upon during the stretch run.
Before coming to Atlanta, Suarez established himself as one of baseball’s dependable late-inning relievers during his time with the San Diego Padres. He recorded 40 saves in 2025 and entered the 2026 season with considerable experience pitching in closing situations.
The Braves also would not necessarily need Suarez to immediately take on a full workload when he returns. If he is healthy and his command remains sharp, Atlanta could ease him back into action while gradually increasing his responsibilities.
For now, Suarez’s comeback remains a process, and there is still no guarantee that he will pitch again before the season ends.
Still, the early signs are encouraging. After dominating opposing hitters with a 0.56 ERA through his first 31 appearances, Suarez has already demonstrated how valuable he can be to Atlanta’s bullpen.
Now, the Braves are simply hoping his recovery continues smoothly and gives them another chance to unleash one of their most effective relievers before the season reaches its conclusion.
