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Braves trade for new pitcher, boosting rotation depth for 2025 season

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jeremy Lockett | Last updated Mar 23, 2025 4:27 PM ET

The Atlanta Braves have traded right-handed pitcher Ian Anderson to the Los Angeles Angels in exchange for left-hander José Suarez. This move comes as both teams look to solidify their pitching depth ahead of the 2025 season.

Ian Anderson, 26, was drafted third overall by the Braves in 2016 and quickly became a key part of their rotation. He played a crucial role in Atlanta’s 2021 World Series run but has faced setbacks in recent years, including undergoing Tommy John surgery that sidelined him for the entire 2024 season. Anderson returned to action in 2025 spring training, posting a 2.25 ERA over 20 innings.

José Suarez, 27, has been with the Angels since making his MLB debut in 2019. Over his career, he has started 61 of his 99 appearances, but his performance has been inconsistent. He posted an ERA over 6.00 in the past two seasons, leading the Angels to explore other pitching options.

For the Braves, acquiring Suarez adds a left-handed option to their pitching staff, which could provide bullpen depth. Atlanta has prioritized roster flexibility in recent years, and Suarez’s ability to start or relieve may give them another useful arm.

The Angels are banking on Anderson’s upside, hoping he can return to form and help solidify their starting rotation. His past success, combined with a promising spring training performance, makes him a potential asset for a team looking to improve its pitching.

Both teams view this trade as a way to address specific needs, with Atlanta adding a left-handed pitcher and the Angels betting on a bounce-back season from Anderson.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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