atlanta ga, September 18, 2025
News Summary
As the Atlanta Braves gear up for the 2026 MLB season, management is focusing on potential contract extensions for key players to solidify the team’s core. Star pitcher Chris Sale is in line to have his team option picked up, while Ha-Seong Kim is expected to utilize his player option. The team faces pressure to secure Ronald Acuña Jr. before he hits free agency, especially given his injury history. The Braves’ front office is navigating a crucial period that could determine the future competitiveness of the roster.
Atlanta Braves management is focusing on potential contract extensions for key players as they prepare for the 2026 MLB season. This strategy aims to solidify the team’s core and prevent key talent from entering free agency. However, the success of this approach has been mixed in the past, which may influence General Manager Alex Anthopoulos to be more cautious in future negotiations.
As of now, several players on the Braves roster are likely candidates for extensions before Opening Day 2026. A primary focus is on Chris Sale, a seasoned pitcher, who recently won the Cy Young Award in 2024. Sale, 36, has demonstrated impressive forms this season, currently holding a 2.35 ERA. The Braves are anticipated to exercise his team option for $18 million in 2026, marking a pivotal element of their pitching rotation.
Another player, Ha-Seong Kim, showed promise during an injury-plagued 2025 season. After displaying skills as a Gold Glove defender, Kim is expected to utilize his $16 million player option for the upcoming season. His performance includes a .313 batting average and a .766 OPS across 14 games, a significant improvement compared to former shortstops on the team.
Meanwhile, the Braves might postpone contract discussions with Jared Schwellenbach while he recovers from a fractured elbow. The pitcher has shown potential with a 3.23 ERA and 1.009 WHIP in 38 major league starts, which could signify frontline starter potential.
There are growing calls for the Braves to secure Ronald Acuña Jr. with a contract extension. Acuña, however, faces injury concerns, having sustained two torn ACLs within four years. The urgency to act on Acuña’s extension is increasingly paramount, as his impending free agency could open doors for other teams interested in acquiring him at any cost.
The Braves risk losing Acuña to the highest bidder if they do not act swiftly. With several core players approaching critical contract decisions, the Braves’ front office is under pressure to ensure their star athletes remain part of the team’s future. The cautious approach may be informed by past experiences where early extensions resulted in less favorable outcomes.
With time running out, the Atlanta Braves face a crucial decision-making period that could define their roster and competitiveness for multiple seasons ahead. For Anthopoulos and the rest of the front office, the balance between securing talent and strategic caution will be pivotal in the coming months.
Player Highlights
| Player | Position | 2026 Contract Status | 2025 Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chris Sale | Pitcher | $18 million team option | 2.35 ERA |
| Ha-Seong Kim | Shortstop | $16 million player option | .313 AVG, .766 OPS |
| Jared Schwellenbach | Pitcher | Pending | 3.23 ERA, 1.009 WHIP |
| Ronald Acuña Jr. | Outfielder | Free Agency | Injury concerns |
FAQ
What is the focus of the Atlanta Braves ahead of the 2026 season?
The Atlanta Braves are focusing on potential contract extensions for key players.
Why has the Braves’ strategy for early extensions been mixed?
The success of extending talent early to avoid free agency issues has been mixed in the past, leading to caution from management.
Which player is expected to have his team option picked up?
Chris Sale is expected to have his team option for $18 million in 2026 picked up by the Braves.
What is Ha-Seong Kim’s contract situation after the 2025 season?
Ha-Seong Kim is expected to pick up his $16 million player option after the 2025 season.
What is Ronald Acuña Jr.’s current situation with the Braves?
There are calls for the Braves to secure Ronald Acuña Jr. with a contract extension before he reaches free agency.
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Additional Resources
- Sports Talk ATL: Atlanta Braves Offseason Extension Candidates
- Sports Illustrated: Popular Sports Talk Show Predicts Falcons Win Division
- Sports Talk ATL: The One Area Holding The Atlanta Falcons Back
- Barrett Media: How 92.9 The Game’s Mike Bell Built a Legacy in Atlanta
- Wikipedia: Atlanta Braves
- Google Search: Atlanta Braves news
- Google Scholar: Atlanta Braves
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Atlanta Braves
- Google News: Atlanta Braves
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