Los Angeles Angels interim GM John Mozeliak stayed active on deadline day. After dealing Jose Soriano to the Toronto Blue Jays early Monday, the Halos’ lead executive followed up with another move—this time involving the Atlanta Braves.
Mozeliak sent veteran left-hander Brent Suter to Atlanta in exchange for infielder Nacho Alvarez Jr. The 23-year-old hasn’t appeared in a Major League game this season, but he logged 58 games with the Braves in 2025 after making his debut in 2024.
Alvarez quickly climbed through the Braves’ farm system after being selected 155th overall in the 2022 MLB Draft, signing for just under $500,000. He appeared in 30 minor league games in his draft year and advanced to High-A the following season.
Atlanta fast-tracked Alvarez to Triple-A in 2024 after just 48 games at Double-A. Then, with fewer than 300 plate appearances for the Gwinnett Stripers, he earned his first call-up to the majors. In a brief eight-game stint that season, he recorded only three hits in 30 at-bats.
Alvarez profiles as more of a contact hitter than a power threat, which is reflected in his 17.8% strikeout rate and .326 slugging percentage at Triple-A this season. However, the former top prospect brings strong defensive value, particularly at third base, where he posted five defensive runs saved (DRS) and two outs above average (OAA) in 2025.
Angels deadline sell off continues after Brent Suter traded to the Braves
Suter inked a one-year deal with the Angels this past offseason and provided a steady veteran presence in their bullpen. The left-hander has carved out a niche as a specialist, with much of his success at the Major League level coming against left-handed hitters. This season, he posted a 4.12 ERA and a 3.65 FIP across 41 relief appearances for Los Angeles.
While Suter’s splits this season don’t necessarily point to dominance against left-handed hitters, he remains a dependable arm capable of handling a variety of roles—whether as an opener, middle reliever, long man, or even in closing situations.
Now headed to Atlanta, Suter joins a Braves team looking to strengthen its bullpen for the stretch run. As one of the primary threats to the Los Angeles Dodgers’ hopes of reaching a third straight World Series, Braves fans will welcome the addition—while Angels supporters can only wish him the best in his new situation.
