A prediction suggests that Atlanta Braves designated hitter Marcell Ozuna will leave the team as a free agent and sign with the AL contender Cleveland Guardians. Ozuna, a three-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger, had a solid but below-par 2025 season with 21 home runs and 68 RBIs. The Braves face decisions on replacing him if he departs.
The Atlanta Braves are navigating a busy offseason, having addressed most needs except for starting pitching, while awaiting the free agency decision of veteran designated hitter Marcell Ozuna. Ozuna has been a key part of the Braves lineup for six seasons, amassing 148 home runs and an OPS+ of 127 during his tenure in Atlanta, where he maximized his hitting production after transitioning to a full-time DH role due to declining defense.
FanSided writer Christopher Kline predicts an under-the-radar move by the Cleveland Guardians to sign Ozuna, seeking added power in their lineup. Kline noted the challenges Ozuna faced in 2025, where reduced at-bats came from the Braves prioritizing opportunities for catcher Sean Murphy and prospect Drake Baldwin. Despite these hurdles, Ozuna remained an above-average hitter with an OPS+ of 113, 21 home runs, and 68 RBIs.
"Last season was complicated for Marcell Ozuna," Kline wrote. "The Atlanta Braves attempted to carve out at-bats for Sean Murphy and Drake Baldwin, subsequently leaving Ozuna on the pine more often than he’s used to. The value in league circles for a mid-30s DH is typically muted, but Ozuna — despite his relative struggles — is still a damn good hitter."
Should the Braves lose Ozuna, they might turn to Murphy at DH, though his availability for the 2026 season remains uncertain following hip surgery. An alternative could involve signing a budget-friendly option like Joc Pederson for lineup pop. At his age, Ozuna is expected to secure a one- or two-year deal elsewhere, with the prediction indicating the Braves may not prioritize re-signing him.