Atlanta GA, October 3, 2025
News Summary
The Atlanta Braves are faced with significant offseason decisions following a disappointing season. With a record of 76-86, key players including Marcell Ozuna and Raisel Iglesias are set to become free agents, prompting the team to consider strategy changes. As they search for a new manager and evaluate several player options, the Braves must make impactful decisions to improve their roster ahead of the next season.
Atlanta Braves Face Crucial Offseason Decisions After Disappointing 2025 Season
The Atlanta Braves concluded the 2025 season with a disappointing record of 76-86, marking their first losing season since 2017 and their first missed playoff appearance since 2018. This subpar performance has set the stage for a critical offseason filled with pivotal decisions for the organization.
Currently, the Braves are in search of a new manager following the departure of Brian Snitker. The team’s management is reevaluating its strategy, especially since several notable players are set to become free agents. Key free agents include Marcell Ozuna and Raisel Iglesias, both of whom were not traded before the July deadline.
Another significant aspect of the offseason will involve evaluating club options for the 2026 season. This includes decisions regarding star players Ozzie Albies, Chris Sale, and Tyler Kinley, a righty bullpen arm who showed promising performance after being acquired from the Colorado Rockies.
On Wednesday, the Braves outrighted several players to Triple-A Gwinnett, including Jarred Kelenic, Alexis Díaz, Dane Dunning, Sandy León, and Luke Williams. Following the outright, Díaz, Dunning, Kelenic, and Williams opted for free agency. Additionally, Charlie Morton, who is now a free agent, received a heartfelt send-off in Game 162, likely marking his retirement.
Marcell Ozuna struggled with a hip injury throughout the 2025 season, leading to a decrease in his performance; he hit only 21 home runs compared to 39 and 40 in the previous two seasons. The Braves are contemplating tagging Ozuna with a $22 million qualifying offer, which could yield draft compensation if he signs elsewhere.
Catchers Sean Murphy and Drake Baldwin alternated the catcher/DH role late in the season, particularly after Murphy’s injury. Meanwhile, the Braves are considering New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso as a potential replacement for Ozuna after Alonso’s successful season, where he hit 38 home runs.
Raisel Iglesias, who was acquired from the Los Angeles Angels, posted a 2.35 ERA and recorded 97 saves during his tenure with the Braves. Despite a challenging first half in 2025, Iglesias made a strong comeback with an impressive August, allowing only one run across 13.2 innings and earning the National League Reliever of the Month award. The Braves may pursue Iglesias again if they can secure him for a reasonable salary, potentially below his previous annual earnings of $14.5 million.
In more changes, Carlos Carrasco was designated for assignment after a disappointing performance in three games for the Braves. Additionally, Ha-Seong Kim, acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays, impressed defensively at shortstop, making him a likely candidate for free agency.
Ozzie Albies faced injury problems throughout 2025, resulting in career lows and raising questions about the team’s decision to exercise his option. If the Braves release him, they would incur a buyout clause costing them $4 million.
As the Braves look to improve their bullpen, it seems likely that Iglesias will depart. With Spencer Strider in recovery from surgery, the rotation’s depth is uncertain, and the team may need to acquire another proven starting pitcher. Furthermore, AJ Smith-Shawver and Grant Holmes are projected to miss most of 2026 due to injuries.
The Braves have publicly expressed a positive outlook toward retaining Tyler Kinley based on his solid performance since joining the team. The upcoming offseason presents numerous critical decisions, including roster adjustments, potential trades, and free-agent signings to bolster the team after a disappointing season.
FAQ
What was the Atlanta Braves’ record for the 2025 season?
The Atlanta Braves concluded the 2025 season with a disappointing record of 76-86, marking their first losing season since 2017 and their first missed playoff appearance since 2018.
Who is the Braves’ new manager?
The team is currently in the process of searching for a new manager following the departure of Brian Snitker.
Which notable free agents are the Braves facing this offseason?
Atlanta’s notable free agents this offseason include Marcell Ozuna and Raisel Iglesias, both of whom were not traded before the July deadline.
Who did the Braves outright to Triple-A Gwinnett?
On Wednesday, the Braves outrighted several players: Jarred Kelenic, Alexis Díaz, Dane Dunning, Sandy León, and Luke Williams, to Triple-A Gwinnett.
What can be expected from Marcell Ozuna next season?
Marcell Ozuna struggled with a hip injury throughout the 2025 season, hitting only 21 home runs compared to 39 and 40 in the previous two seasons. The Braves might consider tagging Ozuna with a $22 million qualifying offer, which could yield draft compensation if he signs elsewhere.
| Player | Position | 2025 Performance | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marcell Ozuna | Outfielder | 21 Home Runs, Downgrade due to injury | Free Agent |
| Raisel Iglesias | Relief Pitcher | 2.35 ERA, 97 Saves | Free Agent |
| Ozzie Albies | Second Baseman | Career lows, Injuries | Option Decision Pending |
| Tyler Kinley | Relief Pitcher | Strong Performance Post-Trade | Keeping Positive Outlook |
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Additional Resources
- Atlanta News First: Braves Offseason Guide
- Battery Power: Off to the Offseason We Go
- Braves Today: What the Braves Need for 2025 Offseason
- SI: Braves Make Moves as Offseason Begins
- Google Search: Atlanta Braves 2025 offseason
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
