A ray of sunshine has descended on the San Diego Padres bullpen.
The Padres announced today that they have activated Robert Suarez, 32, from the disabled list.
Suarez had been on the disabled list with an elbow injury. He rejoined the team for the trip to Toronto after completing a rehabilitation program and will return for the series finale.
Robert Suarez is back in action. Photo via AFPBBNews = News1
After playing for SoftBank and Hanshin in Nippon Professional Baseball, Suarez broke into the big leagues last season when he signed with San Diego.안전놀이터
His first season was a success. He pitched 47 2/3 innings in 45 games with a 2.27 ERA. In 18 save situations, he recorded 11 holds and three blown saves.
He was particularly dominant in the second half of the season, going 3-0 with a 1.48 ERA in 23 games to help the team reach the postseason.
After exercising his opt-out, he re-signed with the Padres for five years and $46 million. It’s structured so that he can opt out after three years.
His return is expected to be a big boost for a team that is currently in a tough division race. “It’s going to be great to have him back,” head coach Bob Melvin said.
To make room on the 26-man roster, the Padres sent Matt Waldron down to Triple-A and claimed left-hander Jose Castillo off waivers after designating him for assignment to make room on the 40-man roster.
Meanwhile, San Diego announced its lineup for the day: Fernando Tatis Jr. (right field), Juan Soto (left field), Manny Machado (third base), Xander Bogaerts (shortstop), Jake Cronenweth (second base), Gary Sanchez (catcher), Matt Carpenter (designated hitter), Trent Grisham (center field), and Alfonso Rivas (first base). Ha Sung Kim will start off the bench.
It’s a move to give Ha-Sung Kim a rest after his recent stint in the leadoff spot, while also emphasizing lefties against right-hander Chris Bassitt.