The Atlanta Braves are prioritizing a shortstop, rotation improvements, and bullpen reconstruction, but may also seek additional hitting depending on their shortstop pursuit. President of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos indicated openness to re-signing Marcell Ozuna or adding a designated hitter. The team's potential free-agent loss of Ozuna highlights the need to address offensive gaps.
ATLANTA -- The Braves have outlined key offseason goals, including finding a shortstop, strengthening the rotation, and rebuilding the bullpen. However, the outcome of their shortstop search could necessitate adding another bat to the lineup.
When asked about utilizing the designated hitter spot next season, Anthopoulos stated: “We haven’t closed the door on guys like [Marcell] Ozuna, but we just don’t know. We’ll see what opportunities present themselves in the winter. If someone who is a pure DH is the right move, we’ll make it. But right now, we’re not committed to anything.”
Ozuna, a 35-year-old slugger, posted a .673 OPS over 91 games after June this past season, impacted by a hip ailment. He had produced a .916 OPS across 2023 and 2024 combined. The Braves face decisions on whether to pursue a reunion with Ozuna or target elite free agents like Bo Bichette, who could demand a major contract but pose defensive issues at shortstop.
Trade possibilities include inquiring about Houston Astros' two-time Gold Glove winner Mauricio Dubon, who has a .677 OPS over the past three seasons and could upgrade over current option Nick Allen. Anthopoulos has ties to Astros GM Dana Brown.
The Braves claimed Ha-Seong Kim off waivers from the Rays on Sept. 1 and used him as everyday shortstop for the season's remainder. Kim, now a free agent after declining a $16 million option, offers strong defense and above-average offense from his Padres days (105 OPS+ in 2022, 107 OPS+ in 2023), potentially at a lower cost than Bichette.
A projected lineup includes LF Jurickson Profar, 1B Matt Olson, RF Ronald Acuña Jr., 3B Austin Riley, C Sean Murphy or Drake Baldwin, DH TBD, 2B Ozzie Albies, CF Michael Harris II, and SS Nick Allen. Rebounds from Murphy, Albies, Harris, and Acuña, plus a full season from Profar and Riley's return to form, could mitigate needs. Payroll constraints make Kyle Schwarber and Pete Alonso unlikely, but Ryan O’Hearn is a possible fit for DH and outfield duties.
The extent of offensive additions will hinge on shortstop resolutions.