Wander Suero and Carlos Rodriguez Find New Homes in Minor Leagues
After their tenure with the Atlanta Braves came to an end, two players have quickly secured new opportunities as they head into the offseason. Right-handed pitcher Wander Suero has inked a minor league contract with the Oakland Athletics, while outfielder Carlos Rodriguez has signed a similar deal with the San Diego Padres.
New Beginnings for Suero
Suero, 34, joined the Athletics organization on November 20 and has been assigned to Triple-A Las Vegas. His journey with the Braves began in January, when he received an invitation to Spring Training. Despite showing promise in Triple-A Gwinnett, his transition to the major leagues proved challenging. In his limited appearances for Atlanta, he struggled with a hefty 11.37 ERA, allowing eight earned runs in just 6 1/3 innings.
After being designated for assignment in September, Suero briefly joined the New York Mets but never took the mound during his time there. Now, with the A’s, he aims to regain his footing and contribute in Sacramento next season. Over the course of his career, Suero has posted a 4.96 ERA across 196 games, with the majority of his experience coming as a member of the Washington Nationals’ bullpen from 2018 to 2021.
Rodriguez’s Opportunity with the Padres
Carlos Rodriguez, meanwhile, signed with the Padres on November 25 and is set to join Triple-A El Paso. The 24-year-old outfielder was previously part of the Milwaukee Brewers organization before being acquired by the Braves last offseason. At the conclusion of the last season, Rodriguez was ranked as the No. 25 prospect within Atlanta’s minor league system. Although he made it to the Braves’ 40-man roster and was called up to the active roster, he did not see game action.
After being outrighted to Triple-A, Rodriguez opted for free agency, leading him to his current opportunity with the Padres. He has a solid track record in Double-A, but he is still in the process of establishing himself at the Triple-A level. In 159 games at this highest tier of the minors, he has recorded a .247 batting average, a .642 OPS, with eight home runs and 42 RBIs.
Braves’ Depth Moves
In light of these departures, the Braves are actively working to replenish their organizational depth. Recently, they have added several relief options on minor league contracts, including Jacob Wallace. Additionally, outfielder Brewer Hicklen has also joined the ranks on a minor league deal. Both players could potentially make an impact during Spring Training and add valuable Major League experience to the team.
As the offseason unfolds, Suero and Rodriguez will look to make the most of their new environments, aiming to revitalize their careers and contribute in the coming seasons.
