The Atlanta Braves are strengthening their roster by adding key players, thickening their player depth. Their commitment to bolstering their team is evident. Will the final piece be Kim Ha-seong?
The Atlanta Braves officially announced on the 12th (Korean time) that they had signed relief setup man Robert Suarez to a three-year, $45 million (66.2 billion Korean won) contract.
With this move, the Braves completed a solid bullpen by signing Suarez after previously agreeing to a one-year, $16 million contract with closer Raisel Iglesias at the start of this offseason.
Iglesias, who debuted with the Cincinnati Reds in 2015 and later played for the LA Angels, has recorded 253 career saves and five seasons with 30 or more saves. The veteran closer posted a 4-6 record with 3 holds, 29 saves, and a 3.21 ERA in 70 games this year.
Suarez, who debuted in the majors in 2022 after playing overseas in Japan and Mexico, was a key member of the San Diego Padres’ bullpen. He played alongside Kim Ha-seong in San Diego. Over four seasons, he appeared in 206 games, posting a 22-13 record with 20 holds, 77 saves, and a 2.91 ERA. This year, he recorded a 4-6 record with 40 saves and a 2.97 ERA in 70 games before entering free agency.
The Braves have quietly been making solid roster upgrades. They re-signed Iglesias and acquired Gold Glove-winning utility player Mauricio Dubón in a trade with Houston. The previous day (the 11th), they signed veteran outfielder Mike Yastrzemski to a two-year, $23 million contract as their fourth outfielder.
North American sports media outlet The Athletic praised the Braves’ solid reinforcements, stating, “They are doing an excellent job of building a deep roster. By acquiring high-quality fifth infielder Mauricio Dubón, who can play second base, shortstop, and third base, they have reduced injury risks and provided starters with more rest.”
The outlet added, “Bringing in Mike Yastrzemski as the fourth outfielder was also an excellent choice. He performs exceptionally well against right-handed pitchers and can play all outfield positions. Notably, he is expected to play left field on days when Jurrjikson Profar serves as the designated hitter.”
Regarding the Suarez signing, the outlet evaluated it as “a very satisfying acquisition.” The media noted, “While the Braves stated that Iglesias will handle closing duties, Suarez will add a strong presence in late-game situations, whether in the eighth or ninth inning, alongside Iglesias.”
The media mentioned that signing Kim Ha-seong and bolstering the starting rotation are the Braves’ final touches. The outlet emphasized, “If the Braves can re-sign shortstop Kim Ha-seong and add a starting pitcher, they will have laid a strong foundation to return to the playoffs in 2026.”
Last year, Kim Ha-seong signed a two-year, $29 million contract with the Tampa Bay Rays but returned in July after rehabilitating from shoulder surgery. However, he struggled with injuries, including back issues, landing on the injured list twice after his return, and was placed on waivers in September. The Braves, in need of a shortstop, claimed him and aimed for a revival, with Kim proving his health over a month. Kim Ha-seong declined a $16 million player option, opted out, and entered free agency.
The Braves respected Kim Ha-seong’s decision but also strongly desired a reunion. If the financial terms are around the $16 million option level, the Braves are willing to reunite with Kim Ha-seong.
