Braves writer reveals Raisel Iglesias' bizarre injury behind unexpected absence vs. Phillies originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Atlanta Braves felt their pitching was lackluster last season, whether due to injuries or inconsistency. Still, Atlanta brought back a familiar face by re-signing closer Raisel Iglesias to a one-year deal in free agency.

“The Braves have addressed one of their offseason priorities by re-signing closer Raisel Iglesias to a one-year, $16 million contract. Atlanta announced the deal Wednesday. Iglesias, a 35-year-old right-hander, had completed a four-year, $58 million contract that paid him $16 million in each of the past three seasons,” ESPN wrote.

The Braves also added Robert Suarez, one of the top closers in the league. Iglesias has handled closing duties to start the season, but on Saturday night, Suarez was called upon for the save opportunity, which created some confusion.

“For those wondering why Robert Suarez is getting the save situation and not Raisel Iglesias, it's possible that it's the fact that Bryce Harper (who leads off B9) is 6-12 with four homers and five RBI off of Iggy. We'll need Weiss to tell us for sure, but that'd make sense,” Braves Today’s Lindsay Crosby posted.

After the game, there was clarification as to why Iglesias was not used in the closing role. He reportedly slept on his shoulder the wrong way, causing some discomfort.

“Iglesias slept on his shoulder wrong last night. That's why he was unavailable tonight. He may be available if needed tomorrow night,” Braves beat writer Mark Bowman wrote.

The Braves are fortunate to have Suarez, who led MLB in saves last season. With him available, there is no need to rush Iglesias back into action.

Atlanta is off to a strong start and currently sits atop the NL East. Iglesias appears to have avoided a serious issue and will simply monitor the discomfort moving forward.

More MLB news:

1. Rangers predicted to make blockbuster trade for $18M All-Star, reunite with MacKenzie Gore

2. Padres predicted to sign $38.5M Cy Young-caliber All-Star to replace injured Nick Pivetta

3. Dodgers' Dave Roberts urged to make Shohei Ohtani move permanent for first time since 2021

4. Dodgers' Edwin Diaz reveals truth behind mysterious injury holding him out of action