Alex Anthopoulos is a general manager who typically likes to act swiftly once free agency begins, and once again that has held true. Within the first six weeks of the offseason, the Braves have already addressed most of their glaring holes.
The acquisition of Mauricio Dubon raises the floor at shortstop, even if Anthopoulos continues to monitor the position with players like Ha-Seong Kim and Bo Bichette still available, along with several intriguing trade options. Mike Yastrzemski adds much-needed depth to the outfield, and following Atlanta’s biggest move of the offseason on Thursday afternoon — a three-year contract for former Padres closer Robert Suarez — the Braves have to feel significantly more confident about their bullpen both now and moving forward.
Suarez and his 99 MPH fastball have been downright dominant over the last two seasons, earning two All-Star appearances while recording 76 saves and a 2.87 ERA. Early reports indicate he will serve as the primary setup man, with Raisel Iglesias — who re-signed with Atlanta earlier this offseason — remaining in the closer role. Either way, Walt Weiss should feel very comfortable any time the Braves take a lead into the eighth inning.
This addition doesn’t completely solve every issue in the bullpen. With Joe Jimenez’s health still a major question mark, Atlanta could use at least one more proven high-leverage arm. However, the relief corps is no longer a disaster — it’s already in better shape than it was at any point last season.
Just as importantly, Robert Suarez gives the Braves a long-term answer at closer beyond 2025, which was a looming concern with Iglesias entering 2026 at 36 years old on a one-year deal.
Now the question becomes: where do the Braves turn next? Atlanta likely has enough financial flexibility left for one more significant splash, whether via trade or free agency. Do they prioritize adding a starting pitcher to stabilize the rotation, or does another bat — preferably one capable of playing shortstop — take precedence?
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