The Atlanta Braves are making several roster moves as September call-ups arrive, adding right-handed reliever Blake Burkhalter and veteran infielder Kyle Farmer to the active roster before Tuesday’s matchup against the Washington Nationals.
Burkhalter is set to make his long-awaited major league debut after an outstanding season in the minors, while Farmer returns to provide Atlanta with additional experience and depth off the bench.
Burkhalter, 25, has been dominant in relief this season, posting a 1.26 ERA with 46 strikeouts and a 1.12 WHIP over 35 2/3 innings across 26 appearances.
The former Auburn standout was selected 76th overall in the 2022 MLB Draft and has overcome Tommy John surgery earlier in his career.
His move to the bullpen has allowed his strikeout ability to flourish, and he now profiles as a potential high-leverage option with an upper-90s fastball and a sharp cutter.
Farmer brings nine years of major league experience and previously spent time with the Braves earlier this season.
In 15 games with Atlanta, the veteran infielder recorded a .267 batting average and a .583 OPS, while offering valuable defensive versatility at second base, third base and shortstop.
His ability to play multiple positions could make him an important bench option as the Braves navigate the final month of the regular season.
To create room on the 40-man roster, Atlanta transferred right-hander Robert Suarez to the 60-day injured list as he continues recovering from right elbow inflammation.
The move was procedural and was backdated to his original injury in June, while keeping him within the organization without requiring a waiver move.
Before getting hurt, Suarez had been exceptional with a 0.56 ERA, 26 strikeouts and four saves over 32 innings, while the first-place Braves entered September with an 82-56 record and a four-game lead over the Philadelphia Phillies in the NL East.
