The Atlanta Braves have recently lost pitcher José Suarez to the Baltimore Orioles through the waiver process. Suarez, a 28-year-old left-hander, had been a valuable bullpen and occasional starting rotation asset for the Braves, offering crucial depth. This move highlights a recurring dynamic between the two MLB franchises, characterized by mutual waiver claims.
Last year, the Braves acquired Suarez in a trade that effectively exchanged two pitchers facing option constraints. Suarez moved to Atlanta, while Ian Anderson went to the Los Angeles Angels. Although Anderson eventually returned to the Braves' system, he did not see major league action with the team. Suarez's tenure with the Braves included seven appearances, one of which was a start. His performance indicated a lower-than-average strikeout rate and a higher-than-average walk rate during his time with the team.
After being designated for assignment by Atlanta last April and going unclaimed, Suarez spent time in the minor leagues before being recalled by the Braves in early September. Since his debut in 2019, he has appeared in 106 games, starting 62 of them, and holds a career ERA of 5.30 with a FIP of 4.69.
The Orioles' acquisition of Suarez is part of an ongoing trend where both the Braves and the Orioles have been actively claiming pitchers from each other's rosters. Just last week, Atlanta claimed pitcher George Soriano from Baltimore, and this latest transaction marks the sixth waiver swap between the two clubs since mid-September. This demonstrates a strategic interaction between the two organizations in managing their pitching depth.
This ongoing exchange of players through waivers reflects a strategic approach by both the Braves and the Orioles to continually adjust and optimize their rosters, particularly in the pitching department. Such moves allow teams to gain fresh talent or add depth without the complexities of trades or free agency, showcasing a dynamic aspect of major league roster management.