Key Changes and New Signings for the Atlanta Braves Ahead of the 2025 Season
As the 2024 MLB season fades into the rearview mirror, the Atlanta Braves are already making moves to fortify their roster and ensure they remain a dominant force in the National League in 2025. With several key players reaching free agency and a few crucial roster spots to fill, the Braves are carefully navigating the offseason to strengthen their lineup. Whether it’s bolstering the bullpen, making shrewd acquisitions for the rotation, or adding depth to their offensive core, Atlanta’s front office is actively shaping a competitive team for the upcoming season.
Key Changes and Roster Decisions
1. Joe Jiménez’s Injury and the Bullpen
One of the first major off-season developments for the Braves came with the unfortunate news that their top setup man, Joe Jiménez, will miss most of the 2025 season following knee surgery. Jiménez had been a key part of Atlanta’s bullpen, providing stability and reliability in high-leverage situations. His injury leaves a significant void in the bullpen that the Braves will need to address through free agency or trade .
Given the importance of the bullpen to their success in the postseason, the Braves are expected to aggressively pursue options in this area. One name that has surfaced as a potential target is Blake Treinen from the Los Angeles Dodgers, who has performed well in recent seasons despite dealing with injuries . If Treinen can stay healthy, he could provide a veteran presence and strengthen Atlanta’s relief corps.
2. Max Fried’s Free Agency and the Braves’ Pitching Rotation
Max Fried, the Braves’ ace and one of the most consistent pitchers in their rotation, was offered a qualifying contract by the Braves this offseason . Fried is expected to receive significant interest from other teams, but by offering him a qualifying offer, the Braves are positioning themselves to secure draft pick compensation should he leave. Fried’s performance in the 2024 season further cemented his value to the Braves, as he continues to be one of the key pieces of Atlanta’s pitching staff.
If Fried chooses to sign elsewhere, the Braves will likely look to sign a starting pitcher to fill the void left in their rotation. Nathan Eovaldi, the 34-year-old right-hander, is a potential target. Eovaldi became a free agent after declining his $20 million option with the Texas Rangers. His playoff pedigree and veteran leadership could be valuable additions to Atlanta’s rotation .
3. The Marcell Ozuna Decision: An Extension for 2025
Marcell Ozuna’s future in Atlanta seemed uncertain after a lackluster 2023 campaign, but the Braves have opted to exercise his $16 million option for 2025 . This move ensures that Ozuna, who enjoyed a resurgence in 2024 with a strong offensive showing, will remain with the team. Ozuna’s bat is a key component of Atlanta’s power-heavy lineup, and his consistent slugging can provide balance and depth to the Braves’ offense.
For Atlanta, bringing back Ozuna is a relatively low-risk move. His ability to hit home runs and drive in runs makes him an essential piece of their offensive puzzle. Given his success at the plate in 2024, this decision could prove to be a crucial one as the Braves prepare for another postseason run.
4. Travis d’Arnaud and Other Roster Moves
While Ozuna’s option was exercised, the Braves made the unexpected decision to decline the $8 million option for veteran catcher Travis d’Arnaud . This is a notable change, as d’Arnaud has been a reliable presence behind the plate for several seasons, providing leadership and offensive support. However, the Braves may be looking to reduce payroll or invest in other areas of need, especially in the bullpen or outfield.
This move leaves the Braves with a gap at catcher that they will likely address either through trade or by bringing in a free-agent option. With d’Arnaud moving on, Atlanta may look to bolster their catching depth with younger, up-and-coming players or acquire a more dynamic backstop to handle the pitching staff.
5. Hitting Coach Change: A New Philosophy
In addition to roster changes, the Braves have made an important coaching hire to adjust their offensive approach for the 2025 season. The team hired a new hitting coach, who is expected to bring fresh ideas and refine the approach to hitting that has worked so well for the Braves’ offense in recent years. The Braves have consistently been one of the top offensive teams in the league, but there is always room for improvement, especially when facing elite pitching in the postseason .
This new hitting coach will likely focus on refining the swing mechanics of some of the Braves’ younger hitters while ensuring that their stars like Ronald Acuña Jr., Matt Olson, and Austin Riley remain at the top of their game. The addition of new voices in the coaching staff could give the Braves an edge when it comes to outpacing their competition in a highly competitive National League.
Looking Ahead: The Braves’ Offseason Strategy
The Braves are positioning themselves as one of the most complete teams in baseball, but there are still several key areas where improvements are needed. Strengthening the bullpen in light of Jiménez’s injury, reinforcing the pitching rotation, and adding depth at catcher will be central to their efforts in the offseason.
In the coming weeks, expect the Braves to make some more moves in free agency or trade to bolster these areas. With an already stacked roster, any new additions could give them the edge they need to make another deep postseason run. Whether they retain Max Fried or add another big-name pitcher, these strategic decisions will be crucial for their success in 2025.
For Braves fans, the offseason is shaping up to be an exciting time filled with possibilities. As they prepare for another championship bid, Atlanta’s front office is making the moves necessary to keep the team competitive and poised to contend for the World Series.