The Atlanta Braves’ pitching staff will look significantly different when the MLB season begins. In a surprising move, the Braves traded 26-year-old right-hander Ian Anderson to the Los Angeles Angels in exchange for lefty José Suarez just days before Opening Day.
Anderson was a key part of Atlanta’s 2021 World Series-winning team, but injuries have derailed his career in recent years. He has not pitched in the Majors since 2022 after undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2023. Over his four-year stint with the Braves, Anderson posted a 22-13 record.
While the trade wasn’t entirely unexpected, Braves fans had hoped for a better outcome. Anderson, who turns 27 in May, now gets a fresh start with the Angels.
Changing Landscape for the Braves’ Pitching Staff
This trade marks a shift for Atlanta, which originally selected Anderson third overall in the 2016 MLB Draft. With Max Fried signing with the Yankees and Charlie Morton joining the Orioles, the Braves’ rotation and bullpen are undergoing a transformation. Suarez, who lacks Anderson’s pedigree, is expected to compete for a role in Atlanta’s bullpen.
Angels manager Ron Washington expressed optimism about Anderson’s potential. “Before he got hurt, he was an up-and-coming, pretty good pitcher,” Washington said via MLB.com. “We needed a right-hander in the bullpen, and although Anderson has been a starter, I think he’ll help us there.”
Meanwhile, Washington also praised Suarez, calling him a “bulldog” on the mound. While the Angels will miss Suarez, they felt Anderson was a better fit for their needs.
Anderson to Begin in Angels’ Bullpen
The Angels plan to ease Anderson back into action by utilizing him in relief. Given his past success and familiarity with Washington from their time together in Atlanta, there’s hope that he can regain his form.
“Everyone, Ian Anderson included, would’ve loved a different outcome this Spring,” noted Grant McAuley of 92.9 The Game Atlanta. “He had some incredible moments early on. Hope he finds success again.”
The Braves open their season on Thursday, March 27, against the San Diego Padres, while Anderson looks to re-establish himself with the Angels.
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