Braves notes: Robert Suarez progresses toward return; Braves recall Bailey Falter

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - Atlanta Braves reliever Robert Suarez continues to progress toward a return and is expected to face live hitters early next week, manager Walt Weiss told reporters on Wednesday.

Facing hitters is typically the final step before a rehab assignment. Suarez’s assignment could be brief, allowing him to return to the club before the postseason begins Sept. 29.

Suarez, whom Atlanta signed to a three-year, $45 million contract last offseason, was among the Braves’ most reliable relievers before right elbow inflammation sidelined him June 23. He has not pitched since June 19.

In 32 innings, Suarez posted a 0.56 ERA. He resumed throwing during the third week of July, around the All-Star break, but experienced a setback in his recovery.

Falter promoted

The Braves recalled left-hander Bailey Falter on Wednesday and designated right-hander Elieser Hernández for assignment.

Atlanta acquired Falter and outfielder Lane Thomas from the Royals in an Aug. 2 trade. Falter last pitched in the majors for Kansas City on May 26. Before the trade, he made 17 appearances, including seven starts, for Triple-A Omaha, going 2-1 with a 3.35 ERA over 43 innings.

Since joining Triple-A Gwinnett, Falter has made seven appearances, including one start, and has not allowed a run in 10.1 innings while striking out 11 batters.

Hernández allowed two solo home runs over two innings in Tuesday’s loss to the Rays.

Elder to IL

The Braves officially placed right-hander Bryce Elder on the 15-day injured list Wednesday and activated Reynaldo López ahead of his start against Tampa Bay.

The 27-year-old underwent knee surgery Tuesday in Dallas and is expected to miss three to four weeks, putting his potential return around the start of the National League Wild Card Series or Division Series.

READ MORE: Braves RHP Bryce Elder headed to injured list after undergoing right knee surgery

With Elder sidelined, the Braves will continue with a six-man rotation — Chris Sale, Tyler Mahle, Grant Holmes, AJ Smith-Shawver, Martín Pérez and Reynaldo López — to give their starters additional rest before the postseason.