Braves' Jose Suarez Could Make Opening Day Roster

Atlanta navigates 13 games in 13 days to open the season

Mar. 13, 2026 at 4:33pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Atlanta Braves are considering adding left-handed pitcher Jose Suarez to their Opening Day roster as they navigate a challenging 13-game, 13-day stretch to start the 2026 season. While the team is expected to use a six-man rotation during that period, the sixth starter may be called up early rather than making the initial roster, potentially opening a spot for Suarez, who is out of minor-league options.

Why it matters

Suarez's potential inclusion on the Opening Day roster would give the Braves added pitching depth and flexibility as they look to get through a grueling early-season schedule. As a versatile arm capable of starting or relieving, Suarez could provide valuable innings for the team in various roles.

The details

Suarez made seven appearances, including one start, for the Braves in 2025, posting a 1.86 ERA, 1.29 WHIP, and a 16:10 K:BB ratio over 19.1 innings. The 28-year-old left-hander is out of minor-league options, which could work in his favor as the Braves look to solidify their pitching staff for the start of the season.

  • The Braves open their 2026 season with 13 games in 13 days.

The players

Jose Suarez

A 28-year-old left-handed pitcher in the Atlanta Braves organization who made seven appearances, including one start, for the team in 2025.

Martin Perez

A pitcher who is expected to be the sixth starter in the Braves' rotation to begin the 2026 season.

JR Ritchie

A Braves prospect who is also in the mix to be the sixth starter to begin the 2026 season.

Didier Fuentes

A Braves prospect who is also in the mix to be the sixth starter to begin the 2026 season.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“While the team is expected to use a six-man rotation during that 13-day slog, that sixth starter -- likely to be Martin Perez, but with prospects JR Ritchie and Didier Fuentes also in the mix -- could be called up early in the season rather than being on the Opening Day roster.”

— Mark Bowman, MLB.com reporter (MLB.com)

What’s next

The Braves will need to finalize their Opening Day roster in the coming weeks, and Suarez's status will be closely monitored as the team determines the best way to navigate their early-season schedule.

The takeaway

Suarez's potential inclusion on the Braves' Opening Day roster highlights the team's need for pitching depth and flexibility as they face a challenging start to the 2026 season. His versatility as a pitcher could make him a valuable asset for the Braves as they look to get through their first 13 games in 13 days.