Latest Robert Suarez meltdown should have Padres ready to reorganize bullpen picture

The San Diego Padres couldn't complete the rally on Wednesday in St. Louis, and unfortunately, closer Robert Suarez was a big reason why. Though a solo home run off the bat of backup catcher Kyle Higashioka in the top of the eighth inning knotted the game at 3-3, the Padres eventually lost.

The Friars were unable to scratch across the go-head run in the ninth despite a leadoff double from Luis Arráez and a sacrifice bunt that got the runner to third base with only one out. Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley struck out Jake Cronenworth and Manny Machado to end the threat.

Padres manager Mike Shildt then turned to Suarez in a non-save situation, and after getting the first two outs of the inning, the right-hander gave up three straight singles, including the game-winning hit up the middle to Nolan Arenado. Suarez has been shaky his last few times out to the bump. Perhaps it's time for the Friars to rework their bullpen with all the assets they possess.

Robert Suarez meltdown should have Padres ready to reorganize bullpen

Suarez was outstanding through the first half of the 2024 season. The 33-year-old made everyone in San Diego quickly forget about Josh Hader, as Suarez was able to lock down the ninth inning with regularity (and sometimes even came on in the eighth when things got dicey).

But Suarez has been slipping of late. While still able to record five saves during his last nine outings, Suarez has allowed 11 hits in 8.2 innings pitched with a 5.19 ERA. Working in Suarez's favor is his 1.90 FIP during that same stretch, suggesting that his struggles of late may have more to do with defensive alignment or poor fielding. Nonetheless, the numbers are what they are, and one has to wonder if Shildt can continue to send Suarez out in these types of high-leverage situations in the midst of a tight playoff race.

It's not like the Friars don't have other quality arms in their bullpen. AJ Preller gave up a ton of prospects this summer in order to add Jason Adam and Tanner Scott to the relief corps. Adam has struck out 21 batters in 13 innings since joining San Diego last month and owns a 0.69 ERA. Scott has punched out 12 batters in 13 appearances with a 2.84 ERA. Adam has three holds since coming over from the Tampa Bay Rays and Scott is 2-for-2 in save tries with five holds of his own.

The Friars are entering a crucial part of the season where the emphasis on winning close games and holding onto leads late in games will be intensified. San Diego's playoff odds are still north of 95%, so there's no need for panic. But with so many options, Shildt would be foolish to not at least kick the tires when it comes to reworking the bullpen before the MLB postseason begins. Only a couple of games could be the difference between a division title and a wild card spot.

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