The Clock Runs on Suarez
The Braves bullpen has missed Robert Suarez since mid-June. Every time the team faces extra innings, fans feel that gap. Walt Weiss finally said the righty setup man can start playing catch this week. The manager noted the right forearm tightness that sidelined him is moving forward. “It’s a big leap from starting a throwing progression to trying to get outs in Major League games,” Weiss said. He added that Suarez is moving forward and they will see how it goes. This is good news, but the road back is uneven. Suarez has not pitched since June 19. The team needs him to close out games.
Smith-Shawver Looks Ready
AJ Smith-Shawver is dominating in Triple-A Gwinnett. He threw 5 1/3 scoreless innings with seven strikeouts on Tuesday night. He has allowed just two earned runs over his past four starts. Weiss believes the 23-year-old can help the team soon. “I think it’s safe to say he’s going to be someone here in the near future that’s going to help us,” Weiss said. Smith-Shawver had Tommy John surgery in June 2025. He showed promise in July with a four-seam fastball that averaged 97.2 mph. The Braves might call him up next week for the trip to Minnesota. A rotation logjam exists with Reynaldo López returning too. Grant Holmes could move to the bullpen to make room.
Schwellenbach’s Season Fades
Spencer Schwellenbach’s return looks less likely every day. Mark Bowman reported that Spencer still “hasn’t felt 100%” in bullpen sessions started in late July. It is mid-August now. The right-hander needs to face live hitters soon or his season is over. A fractured right elbow caused him to miss the final three months of 2025. Bone spurs from that same elbow required surgery for removal in February. “He’s still working through some things with his arm,” Weiss said. “So it’s been an uneven road back.” The manager does not want a six-man rotation. The team must decide who stays if Smith-Shawver returns. The path for Schwellenbach is clear, but it is not leading to the big leagues this year.
