Padres News: Friars Close to Getting Big Time Bullpen Piece Back from Injury

A key reinforcement is nearing his return.

The 2023 season for the San Diego Padres hasn't gone nearly according to plan.

A parade of injuries and lackluster performance has led the Padres to the brink of a lost season with the trade deadline approaching, sitting eight games back from the final NL wild card spot.

Robert Suarez was supposed to play a key role this year as he looked to build on his standout debut season in 2022, where he logged a 2.27 ERA and became a shutdown arm out of a strong Padres bullpen.

Instead, the 32-year-old saw his second year grind to a halt before it could even begin, as he was shut down in spring training because of elbow inflammation.

Thus began the tailspin for San Diego, one that sees them needing to win big -- and do it quickly -- or risk becoming sellers at the deadline and wondering what might have been.

There is some positive news on Suarez, though, as he looks to be on the cusp of a return to the Padres, per Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune.

Robert Suarez could join the Padres in Toronto and, barring that, almost certainly will be with the team by the time they begin a series in Detroit on Friday. Suarez is in the final stages of his rehab assignment with Triple-A El Paso.

Assuming that he does return on Friday, the addition of one of their most reliable options out of the bullpen should be a boon for what's been an average group this year.

As of Monday morning, they ranked 14th in MLB with a 3.94 bullpen ERA.

Suarez alone probably won't be enough to turn the tide in San Diego, but him coming back into the fold will certainly help as they try to quickly change their fortunes this season.