Though much of the conversation for the Padres' offseason has been focused on two marquee pitchers in the organization, should one of them decide to leave in free agency, an in-house replacement is ready to step into a bigger role.
Likely the favorite for NL Reliever of the Year, Josh Hader's departure for a bigger payday elsewhere could see Friar reliever Robert Suarez take over the team's closer role for 2024 and beyond.
“I think we’re still a ways away from that,” he said. “For me, I’m just focused on finishing this season strong. We’ll see what happens, but I think if presented with that opportunity I’m going to be ready and I’m going to do what I can to do my best.”
Suarez was a great story for the 2022 season after he spent multiple seasons in Japan and impressed in a one-year contract for the team.
As a key bullpen piece, Suarez's contributions to the NLCS squad from last year earned him a new contract for the next five years and $46 million this offseason.
After a 2.27 ERA last year, the reliever has struggled in 2023 with various on and off the field issues.
Injured for the majority of this year, when he has been healthy enough to pitch, Suarez's ERA has risen to 4.15.
Even more troubling was a 10-game suspension for sticky substance use earlier in the year, adding to his lack of rhythm for the team all season long.
Though Hader has been great with a sub 1.5 ERA and 30 saves, the former Brewer could sign elsewhere making the closer job open for the taking.
San Diego's options for next season could end up leaning on Suarez for the job, hoping for more consistency from one of their best signings in recent memory.
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