Braves to sign ex-Padres closer to $45 million free agent contract

Matt Sullivan

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Braves to sign ex-Padres closer to $45 million free agent contract image

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The Atlanta Braves came into the offseason with a few key needs. Adding to the starting rotation, bullpen, at shortstop were the big areas of need for Atlanta this winter.

While they haven't gone after any big-name shortstops, they brought back Raisel Iglesias and were mentioned as a suitor for a few of the top relievers available.

And according to ESPN's Jeff Passan, the Braves are indeed signing a new closer. The Braves and former San Diego Padres closer Robert Suarez are agreeing on a three-year, $45 million deal.

Braves agreed to $45 million contract with Robert Suarez

"BREAKING: Closer Robert Suarez and the Atlanta Braves are in agreement on a three-year, $45 million contract, sources tell ESPN." Jeff Passan reported Thursday.

The Braves were connected to Suarez this winter, and after Edwin Diaz signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers, the New York Mets and Toronto Blue Jays also joined in their interest in Suarez.

But Atlanta beat out the Blue Jays and their division rival for Suarez, who's coming off his best season in his four years in the Major Leagues.

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In 2025 with the Padres, Suarez had a 2.97 ERA over 70 appearances with an NL-leading 40 saves. Suarez finished the year with a career-high 75 strikeouts across 69.2 innings pitched.

While his 144 ERA+ is just the third-highest mark of his four-year MLB career, Suarez was still one of the best relievers in baseball this past season.

Atlanta is getting a great closer for the next three years, as Suarez joins the Braves' bullpen as the team's new closer. It's a $45 million deal, paying Suarez $15 million per year.

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