Atlanta activated reliever Robert Suarez from the 60‑day IL before Wednesday’s clash with the Reds, ending his stint since late June with right‑elbow inflammation. To make room, right‑hander Owen Murphy was optioned, and because a spot on the 40‑man roster was already open, no further transaction was required.
Suarez returns just as the playoff push intensifies, slated for two outings in the last five regular‑season games, according to MLB.com’s Mark Bowman. He logged a scoreless inning in a rehab start for Triple‑A Gwinnett, flashing a 96.9 mph four‑seamer—slightly below his usual heat.
Atlanta secured Suarez with a three‑year, $45 million contract, pairing him with closer Raisel Iglesias for late‑inning dominance. Before his elbow setback, the right‑hander boasted a microscopic 0.56 ERA in 31 games, adding 12 holds and four saves.
Even without Suarez, the bullpen stayed formidable, ranking third in ERA league‑wide, trailing only Boston. Dylan Lee leads the National League with 30 holds, while Didier Fuentes has emerged as a high‑leverage asset. Iglesias remains steady, converting 34 of 37 save chances.
Owen Murphy has bounced between roles this summer, tallying one start and four relief appearances in his rookie stint, posting a 6.00 ERA over 12 innings. The prospect excelled as a Triple‑A starter, and while Atlanta envisions him handling multi‑inning relief now, a rotation spot could still be on the horizon. Will he swing back to the rotation next year?