{"id":130411,"date":"2025-12-14T13:38:25","date_gmt":"2025-12-14T13:38:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sportnews.azontree.com\/?p=130411"},"modified":"2025-12-14T13:38:25","modified_gmt":"2025-12-14T13:38:25","slug":"breaking-projecting-the-braves-2026-pitching-depth-chart-looks-very-different-after-the-robert-suarez-signing-the-move-adds-stability-at-the-back-end-but-it-also-creates-new-questions-thr","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sportnews.azontree.com\/?p=130411","title":{"rendered":"Breaking!! Projecting the Braves\u2019 2026 pitching depth chart looks very different after the Robert Su\u00e1rez signing. The move adds stability at the back end, but it also creates new questions throughout the staff. How will Atlanta balance veterans, young arms, and roles moving forward?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"mb-0 md:mb-9 relative md:mx-10 md:mb-9\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"overflow-hidden bg-lightGrey\"><picture><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"undefined w-full\" title=\"Sep 5, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Chris Sale (51) throws against the Seattle Mariners in the first inning at Truist Park.\" src=\"https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_78,w_2729,h_1535\/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images\/ImagnImages\/mmsport\/265\/01kca6nqzejrs8wc97kt.jpg\" alt=\"Sep 5, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Chris Sale (51) throws against the Seattle Mariners in the first inning at Truist Park.\" width=\"2729\" height=\"1535\" data-uw-rm-alt-original=\"Sep 5, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Chris Sale (51) throws against the Seattle Mariners in the first inning at Truist Park.\" data-uw-rm-alt=\"ALT\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<div class=\"flex items-center gap-4 ml-1 pb-2 mt-4 md:m-3 text-darkGrey font-group-tiny\">\n<div class=\"flex items-center gap-4 ml-1 pb-2 mt-4 md:m-3 text-darkGrey font-group-tiny\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>Sep 5, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Chris Sale (51) throws against the Seattle Mariners in the first inning at Truist Park. | Brett Davis-Imagn Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"flex flex-wrap justify-center lg:justify-normal\">\n<div class=\"flex lg:mr-4 lg:w-[calc(70%-3em)] max-w-full\"><main class=\"min-w-0 flex-1 odesa-article-main\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"viewablity-block\">\n<figure class=\"player-wrapper relative aspect-video mb-[18px] bg-grey rounded-md hidden player-wrapper-lg md:block\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"article-content [&amp;_p]:leading-[30px] [&amp;_p]:md:leading-[28px] [&amp;_li]:leading-[30px] [&amp;_li]:md:leading-[28px]\">\n<p id=\"inline-text-0\" class=\"mt-[18px] md:mt-0 mb-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">The Atlanta Braves made a surprisingly flashy move in free agency,\u00a0landing closer Robert Suarez earlier this week. It is a signing that cements the Braves&#8217; bullpen in a far better position than the 2025 season, and it is fair to expect more moves to follow.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mt-[18px] md:mt-0 mb-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">Another aspect of the offseason improvement is that Atlanta&#8217;s rotation has time to get healthy and put together a group of starters who will be forced to compete for the final role.<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-1\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">With this in mind, let&#8217;s look at the Braves&#8217; projected pen and rotation after the latest signing, while noting that this is sure to change with moves ahead. However, for the time being, it is clear how the rotation is going to shake out, starting with the team&#8217;s veteran ace.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"inline-text-2\" class=\"scroll-mt-24 my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">Projected Braves Starting Rotation for 2026<\/h2>\n<h2 id=\"list-item-3\" class=\"my-f-1\" role=\"presentation\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"hide\"><span class=\"text-primary inline-block mr-2\">1.<\/span><span class=\"text-darkGrey\">Chris Sale, LHP<\/span><span class=\"data-uw-rm-autofix-hide\" data-uw-reader-element=\"\" data-uw-rm-ignore=\"\">Empty heading<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"inline-text-1\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">There isn&#8217;t any mystery here as to why the 2024 CY Young award winner is going to sit atop the rotation yet again to start the 2026 season.<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">The lefty went 7-5 with a 2.58 ERA and closed the season out in fitting fashion. Looking objectively at the remaining options, there isn&#8217;t a valid argument against Sale being Atlanta&#8217;s 2026 Opening Day starter.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"list-item-4\" class=\"my-f-1\" role=\"presentation\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"hide\"><span class=\"text-primary inline-block mr-2\">2.<\/span><span class=\"text-darkGrey\">Spencer Strider, RHP<\/span><span class=\"data-uw-rm-autofix-hide\" data-uw-reader-element=\"\" data-uw-rm-ignore=\"\">Empty heading<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"inline-text-1\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">What the Braves will get from Spencer Strider will go a long way toward deciding the fate of the 2026 season.<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">After being one of the league&#8217;s best pitchers when healthy, the right-hander missed the bulk of the 2024 season only to return the following year with less velocity and issues giving up the long ball. Whether Strider can be the player he was before 2024&#8217;s injury will decide if this is the league&#8217;s most dominant rotation.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"list-item-5\" class=\"my-f-1\" role=\"presentation\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"hide\"><span class=\"text-primary inline-block mr-2\">3.<\/span><span class=\"text-darkGrey\">Spencer Schwellenbach, RHP<\/span><span class=\"data-uw-rm-autofix-hide\" data-uw-reader-element=\"\" data-uw-rm-ignore=\"\">Empty heading<\/span><\/h2>\n<figure>\n<div class=\"overflow-hidden bg-lightGrey undefined\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_110,w_2977,h_1674\/c_fill,w_360,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca6m3psywb5by5cjr.jpg 1x,  \nhttps:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_110,w_2977,h_1674\/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca6m3psywb5by5cjr.jpg 2x, \n    https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_110,w_2977,h_1674\/c_fill,w_1080,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca6m3psywb5by5cjr.jpg 3x\" media=\"(max-width: 719px)\" \/><source srcset=\"https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_110,w_2977,h_1674\/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca6m3psywb5by5cjr.jpg 1x, \nhttps:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_110,w_2977,h_1674\/c_fill,w_1440,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca6m3psywb5by5cjr.jpg 2x, \n    https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_110,w_2977,h_1674\/c_fill,w_1440,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca6m3psywb5by5cjr.jpg 3x\" media=\"(max-width: 1079px)\" \/><source srcset=\"https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_110,w_2977,h_1674\/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca6m3psywb5by5cjr.jpg 1x, \nhttps:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_110,w_2977,h_1674\/c_fill,w_1440,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca6m3psywb5by5cjr.jpg 2x,\n    https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_110,w_2977,h_1674\/c_fill,w_1440,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca6m3psywb5by5cjr.jpg 3x\" media=\"(min-width: 1080px)\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"undefined w-full\" title=\"Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Spencer Schwellenbach throws a pitc\" src=\"https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_110,w_2977,h_1674\/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images\/ImagnImages\/mmsport\/265\/01kca6m3psywb5by5cjr.jpg\" alt=\"Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Spencer Schwellenbach throws a pitc\" width=\"2977\" height=\"1674\" data-uw-rm-alt-original=\"Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Spencer Schwellenbach throws a pitc\" data-uw-rm-alt=\"ALT\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<div class=\"flex items-center gap-4 text-darkGrey font-group-tiny m-3\">\n<div class=\"flex items-center gap-4 text-darkGrey font-group-tiny m-3\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>Jun 28, 2025; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Spencer Schwellenbach (56) pitches against the Philadelphia Phillies during the second inning at Truist Park. | Dale Zanine-Imagn Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"inline-text-2\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">Spencer Schwellenbach is an absolute gamer in the best sense.<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">Every fifth day you put the starter on the mound, you know the franchise has a great chance to win. Watching the starter adjust to different lineups and find ways to compete suggests that the Braves will have a stalwart for the rotation for many years to come.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"list-item-6\" class=\"my-f-1\" role=\"presentation\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"hide\"><span class=\"text-primary inline-block mr-2\">4.<\/span><span class=\"text-darkGrey\">Hurston Waldrep, RHP<\/span><span class=\"data-uw-rm-autofix-hide\" data-uw-reader-element=\"\" data-uw-rm-ignore=\"\">Empty heading<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"inline-text-1\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">After coming out of the gates incredibly hot, Waldrep cooled in the final weeks of the season. However, the starter still finished with an ERA of 2.88, going 6-1 on the season.<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">There is so much to love about the young right-hander who is still only 23 and will remain under team control until the 2032 season. All of this paints an exciting picture of just how dominating the Atlanta rotation can remain well beyond this season.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"list-item-7\" class=\"my-f-1\" role=\"presentation\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"hide\"><span class=\"text-primary inline-block mr-2\">5.<\/span><span class=\"text-darkGrey\">Grant Holmes, RHP<\/span><span class=\"data-uw-rm-autofix-hide\" data-uw-reader-element=\"\" data-uw-rm-ignore=\"\">Empty heading<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"inline-text-1\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">Holmes currently holds the final spot in the rotation based simply on the fact that the Braves are yet to make a move at the position.<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">It seems very probable that Atlanta explores adding a veteran to this spot and moves Homes back to the pen.<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">However, for the time being, the starter is holding onto the final spot in the Braves&#8217; rotation.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"inline-text-8\" class=\"scroll-mt-24 my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">Projecting Braves&#8217; Bullpen for 2026<\/h2>\n<h2 id=\"list-item-9\" class=\"my-f-1\" role=\"presentation\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"hide\"><span class=\"text-primary inline-block mr-2\">6.<\/span><span class=\"text-darkGrey\">Raisel Iglesias, RHP: Closer<\/span><span class=\"data-uw-rm-autofix-hide\" data-uw-reader-element=\"\" data-uw-rm-ignore=\"\">Empty heading<\/span><\/h2>\n<figure>\n<div class=\"overflow-hidden bg-lightGrey undefined\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_210,w_2533,h_1424\/c_fill,w_360,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca6t3d7afnttg3ynv.jpg 1x,  \nhttps:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_210,w_2533,h_1424\/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca6t3d7afnttg3ynv.jpg 2x, \n    https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_210,w_2533,h_1424\/c_fill,w_1080,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca6t3d7afnttg3ynv.jpg 3x\" media=\"(max-width: 719px)\" \/><source srcset=\"https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_210,w_2533,h_1424\/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca6t3d7afnttg3ynv.jpg 1x, \nhttps:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_210,w_2533,h_1424\/c_fill,w_1440,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca6t3d7afnttg3ynv.jpg 2x, \n    https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_210,w_2533,h_1424\/c_fill,w_1440,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca6t3d7afnttg3ynv.jpg 3x\" media=\"(max-width: 1079px)\" \/><source srcset=\"https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_210,w_2533,h_1424\/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca6t3d7afnttg3ynv.jpg 1x, \nhttps:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_210,w_2533,h_1424\/c_fill,w_1440,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca6t3d7afnttg3ynv.jpg 2x,\n    https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_210,w_2533,h_1424\/c_fill,w_1440,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca6t3d7afnttg3ynv.jpg 3x\" media=\"(min-width: 1080px)\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"undefined w-full\" title=\"Atlanta Braves relief pitcher Raisel Iglesias stretche\" src=\"https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_210,w_2533,h_1424\/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images\/ImagnImages\/mmsport\/265\/01kca6t3d7afnttg3ynv.jpg\" alt=\"Atlanta Braves relief pitcher Raisel Iglesias stretche\" width=\"2533\" height=\"1424\" data-uw-rm-alt-original=\"Atlanta Braves relief pitcher Raisel Iglesias stretche\" data-uw-rm-alt=\"ALT\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<div class=\"flex items-center gap-4 text-darkGrey font-group-tiny m-3\">\n<div class=\"flex items-center gap-4 text-darkGrey font-group-tiny m-3\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>Sep 23, 2025; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves relief pitcher Raisel Iglesias (26) reacts after the Braves defeated the Washington Nationals at Truist Park. | Dale Zanine-Imagn Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"inline-text-2\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">While Atlanta added\u00a0depth behind the closer,\u00a0the job will remain in Raisel Iglesias&#8217; hands heading into the 2026 season.<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">The difference this year is greatly improved depth, which will allow the Braves to quickly pivot if any of last season&#8217;s struggles appear again.<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">For Iglesias, it is a great opportunity and one that will be far better supported with an improved cast.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"list-item-10\" class=\"my-f-1\" role=\"presentation\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"hide\"><span class=\"text-primary inline-block mr-2\">7.<\/span><span class=\"text-darkGrey\">Robert Suarez, RHP: Setup<\/span><span class=\"data-uw-rm-autofix-hide\" data-uw-reader-element=\"\" data-uw-rm-ignore=\"\">Empty heading<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"inline-text-1\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">The blockbuster deal of Atlanta&#8217;s offseason so far is signing former San Diego Padres closer Robert Suarez in a setup role.<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">Not only have you added a capable closer when things go awry, but if Iglesias can play at the level expected, all of a sudden, you have one of the league&#8217;s more dominant duos for the two final frames.<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">It was a winning move for Atlanta, one that suggests the team is once again heading in the right direction.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"list-item-11\" class=\"my-f-1\" role=\"presentation\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"hide\"><span class=\"text-primary inline-block mr-2\">8.<\/span><span class=\"text-darkGrey\">Aaron Bummer, LHP: Middle Relief<\/span><span class=\"data-uw-rm-autofix-hide\" data-uw-reader-element=\"\" data-uw-rm-ignore=\"\">Empty heading<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"inline-text-1\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">Aaron Bummer has appeared in 98 games with the Braves over the last two seasons in a variety of roles. This appears to be the continued path for the left-hander if manager Walt Weiss turns to the reliever both to eat innings and in high-leverage middle-inning situations. While there is less pressure on Bummer than in previous seasons, the veteran continues to be an important factor for Atlanta.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"list-item-12\" class=\"my-f-1\" role=\"presentation\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"hide\"><span class=\"text-primary inline-block mr-2\">9.<\/span><span class=\"text-darkGrey\">Joe Jimenez, RHP: Setup<\/span><span class=\"data-uw-rm-autofix-hide\" data-uw-reader-element=\"\" data-uw-rm-ignore=\"\">Empty heading<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"inline-text-1\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">This was an underrated 2025 loss that many Atlanta fans overlooked heading into the season.<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">A year before, Joe Jimenez had a 2.62 ERA and consistently tallied high-leverage outs, making it obvious that the reliever will step back into a setup role if he can get healthy after missing the entire 2025 season.<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">It seems probable that he will be able to return, considering Jimenez had a full season to recover, as well as the offseason ahead.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"list-item-13\" class=\"my-f-1\" role=\"presentation\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"hide\"><span class=\"text-primary inline-block mr-2\">10.<\/span><span class=\"text-darkGrey\">Dylan Lee, LHP: Middle Relief<\/span><span class=\"data-uw-rm-autofix-hide\" data-uw-reader-element=\"\" data-uw-rm-ignore=\"\">Empty heading<\/span><\/h2>\n<figure>\n<div class=\"overflow-hidden bg-lightGrey undefined\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_175,w_5029,h_2828\/c_fill,w_360,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca7456bes1a26pzdg.jpg 1x,  \nhttps:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_175,w_5029,h_2828\/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca7456bes1a26pzdg.jpg 2x, \n    https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_175,w_5029,h_2828\/c_fill,w_1080,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca7456bes1a26pzdg.jpg 3x\" media=\"(max-width: 719px)\" \/><source srcset=\"https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_175,w_5029,h_2828\/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca7456bes1a26pzdg.jpg 1x, \nhttps:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_175,w_5029,h_2828\/c_fill,w_1440,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca7456bes1a26pzdg.jpg 2x, \n    https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_175,w_5029,h_2828\/c_fill,w_1440,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca7456bes1a26pzdg.jpg 3x\" media=\"(max-width: 1079px)\" \/><source srcset=\"https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_175,w_5029,h_2828\/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca7456bes1a26pzdg.jpg 1x, \nhttps:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_175,w_5029,h_2828\/c_fill,w_1440,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca7456bes1a26pzdg.jpg 2x,\n    https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_175,w_5029,h_2828\/c_fill,w_1440,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F265%2F01kca7456bes1a26pzdg.jpg 3x\" media=\"(min-width: 1080px)\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"undefined w-full\" title=\"Atlanta Braves pitcher Dylan Lee (52) walks off the field after being relieved\" src=\"https:\/\/images2.minutemediacdn.com\/image\/upload\/c_crop,x_0,y_175,w_5029,h_2828\/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto\/images\/ImagnImages\/mmsport\/265\/01kca7456bes1a26pzdg.jpg\" alt=\"Atlanta Braves pitcher Dylan Lee (52) walks off the field after being relieved\" width=\"5029\" height=\"2828\" data-uw-rm-alt-original=\"Atlanta Braves pitcher Dylan Lee (52) walks off the field after being relieved\" data-uw-rm-alt=\"ALT\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<div class=\"flex items-center gap-4 text-darkGrey font-group-tiny m-3\">\n<div class=\"flex items-center gap-4 text-darkGrey font-group-tiny m-3\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>Sep 20, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Atlanta Braves pitcher Dylan Lee (52) walks off the field after being relieved in the seventh inning against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. | Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"inline-text-2\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">Where Dylan Lee will be used depends much on the health of Jimenez and how Iglesias performs.<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">If the closer can hold onto his job and Suarez is the primary 8th inning option, all of a sudden, you have an elite early inning arm to turn to in Lee.<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">The left-hander is one of the few returning pieces that have been reliable and will continue to be an important cog within Atlanta&#8217;s pen.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"list-item-14\" class=\"my-f-1\" role=\"presentation\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"hide\"><span class=\"text-primary inline-block mr-2\">11.<\/span><span class=\"text-darkGrey\">Reynaldo Lopez, RHP: Middle Relief \/Setup<\/span><span class=\"data-uw-rm-autofix-hide\" data-uw-reader-element=\"\" data-uw-rm-ignore=\"\">Empty heading<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"inline-text-1\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">This is where things get a bit less clear and will likely change with further offseason additions ahead.<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">However, for the time being, it makes sense to move Reynaldo Lopez back into the bullpen after missing the bulk of last season with an injury.<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">Putting Lopez in the pen takes some of the pressure and wear-and-tear off an injury-prone player. It also hands the Braves another potential setup option that could also eat more than one inning when needed.<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">No question, moving Lopez back to the pen is the right move.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"list-item-15\" class=\"my-f-1\" role=\"presentation\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"hide\"><span class=\"text-primary inline-block mr-2\">12.<\/span><span class=\"text-darkGrey\">Hayden Harris, LHP: Middle Relief<\/span><span class=\"data-uw-rm-autofix-hide\" data-uw-reader-element=\"\" data-uw-rm-ignore=\"\">Empty heading<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"inline-text-1\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">The last-season emergence of Hayden Harris was one of the underreported stories, with the pitcher quickly ascending through Atlanta&#8217;s minor league system and debuting. The young reliever pitched 2 2\/3 innings and gave up one earned run.<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">This is a spot likely to change if the Braves make another addition, but for now, Harris provides the most interesting upside among Atlanta&#8217;s final relief options.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"list-item-16\" class=\"my-f-1\" role=\"presentation\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"hide\"><span class=\"text-primary inline-block mr-2\">13.<\/span><span class=\"text-darkGrey\">Joey Wentz, LHP: Long Relief\/Emergency Starter<\/span><span class=\"data-uw-rm-autofix-hide\" data-uw-reader-element=\"\" data-uw-rm-ignore=\"\">Empty heading<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"inline-text-1\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">Looking at Atlanta&#8217;s current long relief or emergency starter options, Joey Wentz and Bryce Elder stand out as the only viable options.<\/p>\n<p class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-secondary my-f-1\">The rest of Atlanta&#8217;s starting arms are either in the rotation or need to be in the minor leagues. Wentz had solid moments last season with Atlanta, but could easily be replaced if the franchise finds a more reliable option for the final bullpen spot.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/main><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Sep 5, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Chris Sale (51) throws against the Seattle Mariners in the first inning at Truist Park. | Brett&#8230; <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":130413,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-130411","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-mlb"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v23.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Breaking!! Projecting the Braves\u2019 2026 pitching depth chart looks very different after the Robert Su\u00e1rez signing. The move adds stability at the back end, but it also creates new questions throughout the staff. How will Atlanta balance veterans, young arms, and roles moving forward? - NEWS USA<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/sportnews.azontree.com\/?p=130411\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Breaking!! Projecting the Braves\u2019 2026 pitching depth chart looks very different after the Robert Su\u00e1rez signing. The move adds stability at the back end, but it also creates new questions throughout the staff. 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