Morosi: Robert Suarez nearing return gives Braves deep October bullpen

An MLB Network insider calls the reliever's expected return from the injured list this week significant for the NL East champions ahead of the playoffs.

Atlanta Braves reliever Robert Suarez is expected to return from the injured list this week, according to MLB Network's Jon Morosi, who discussed the development on air on September 22.

Suarez has been on the 60-day injured list with elbow and forearm inflammation. In 31 appearances this season, he has posted a 0.56 ERA with 26 strikeouts and four saves, and he is a two-time All-Star.

Morosi called the pending return a significant boost, describing Suarez as one of the best relievers in baseball and noting that he is effective against both right-handed and left-handed hitters. He added that pairing Suarez ahead of Raisel Iglesias could keep Iglesias from being overextended.

Morosi also pointed to the left-handed options in the bullpen, including Dylan Dodd, Dylan Lee and Brent Suter, along with AJ Smith-Shawver, who has moved from the rotation to relief. He said the group now ranks among the deepest bullpens in the National League playoff field.

The Braves have already clinched the NL East title. Six games remain in the regular season, and an official return date for Suarez has not been announced.