The Atlanta Braves have secured a significant addition to their roster, agreeing to terms on a three-year, $45 million contract with closer Robert Suarez. Sources confirmed this deal to ESPN’s Jeff Passan on December 11, 2025.
Suarez, coming off a stellar season in which he led the National League with 40 saves from 45 opportunities, entered free agency earlier in November after opting out of his $8 million options for the 2026 and 2027 seasons. Over the past two years, he solidified his position as the closer for the San Diego Padres, earning two All-Star selections and establishing a reputation as one of the premier closers in Major League Baseball. His performance during this period included a commendable 2.87 ERA and a total of 76 saves, leading the league.
In the 2025 season, Suarez struck out 75 batters across 69 2/3 innings while achieving a remarkable career-low walk rate of 5.9%. Amazingly, even at the age of 34, his fastball was clocked at an average of 98.6 mph, showcasing his potency on the mound.
Originally hailing from Venezuela, Suarez embarked on his professional career in Mexico before making a name for himself in Japan. His transition to Major League Baseball began after two standout seasons with the Hanshin Tigers in 2020 and 2021, which caught the attention of major league scouts. After signing a one-year, $6 million contract with the Padres, he then secured a more lucrative contract that netted him a combined $30 million from 2023 to 2025.
As he approaches his 35th birthday on March 1, the Braves are banking on Suarez’s experience and performance to bolster their bullpen and enhance their chances in the upcoming seasons.
