The Orioles are adding another left-handed option to their bullpen mix, claiming veteran José Suárez off waivers from the Atlanta Braves on Thursday. It’s a move that adds depth and experience to a relief corps that could use another southpaw presence - especially one with Suárez’s versatility.
At 28 years old, Suárez brings with him six seasons of big-league experience, mostly with the Angels before a brief stint in Atlanta. His career numbers - a 22-29 record with a 5.30 ERA and two saves - don’t jump off the page, but there’s more to the story than the stat line suggests.
Suárez came up as a starter and logged the bulk of his innings in that role early in his career. But over the past two seasons, he’s transitioned into more of a bullpen arm, making just four starts during that span. That shift in usage may be key to unlocking his value moving forward - especially considering how effective he was in limited action last season.
In 2025, Suárez spent a significant chunk of the year on the injured list with a left shoulder issue. But when he was healthy, he quietly delivered.
In seven appearances for the Braves, he went 2-0 with a 1.86 ERA and picked up a save. Small sample size, sure - but those numbers hint at a pitcher who might be turning a corner in a new role.
The Orioles clearly see something worth exploring. Whether Suárez becomes a reliable middle-inning option or a situational lefty, he gives Baltimore a low-risk, potentially high-reward arm to work with as spring training approaches.
To make room on the 40-man roster, the Orioles designated infielder Marco Luciano for assignment. Luciano had just been claimed off waivers from Pittsburgh on January 7, but with roster spots at a premium, Baltimore opted to prioritize bullpen depth.
It’s the kind of move that doesn’t make headlines in January but could pay dividends down the stretch. If Suárez can stay healthy and continue building on what he showed in Atlanta, the Orioles might’ve just found a valuable piece for their 2026 bullpen puzzle.