With the World Series barreling toward its conclusion and Freddie Freeman once again playing the postseason hero — this time not for Atlanta — the offseason is just over the horizon, casting long shadows over a Braves fanbase still stinging from October disappointments. Soon, the focus will shift from fireworks in October to the cold calculus of November decisions: non-tenders, option calls, and trade talks. For Alex Anthopoulos and the Atlanta front office, that means one thing — it’s time to get to work.
Ha-Seong Kim Is the Realistic Dream the Braves Must Chase
Atlanta’s offseason blueprint may be murky in its timing, but not in its needs. This is a team with a core built to contend, but with enough cracks in the foundation to require smart, swift repairs. Shortstop remains the glaring need, and starting pitching depth isn’t far behind. Within that landscape lie potential dream moves — and a few nightmarish ones the Braves must sidestep at all costs.
Let’s start with the dream scenario: Ha-Seong Kim. Atlanta has danced with the idea before, and a reunion here makes too much sense to ignore. He’s a two-way contributor, both defensively sturdy and a solid bat. He won’t come cheap, but compared to the cost of some higher-profile names, Kim offers value, versatility, and much-needed reliability. If the Braves want to shore up the infield without mortgaging the future or busting the budget, this is the move to make. It’s not splashy, but it’s smart — and with Vaughn Grissom’s status still uncertain, smart is what Atlanta needs.
Bo Bichette’s Price Tag Could Become a Long-Term Liability
Now, let’s address the elephant in the rumor mill: Bo Bichette. On paper, he’s a name — a big one. At 27, he’ll be angling for a contract well north of $180 million, possibly flirting with $200 million. And yes, he can hit. But hitting alone doesn’t make a complete player, and Bichette’s defensive issues can’t be brushed aside. Combine that with recent injuries and a price tag that could tie up payroll flexibility for years, and the shine fades quickly. This isn’t about denying talent — it’s about cost versus value. The Braves would be paying top dollar for a bat-first shortstop who doesn’t shore up the one thing they need at the position: defense.
Tarik Skubal Would Be the Ace Atlanta Didn’t Know It Needed
And then there’s the blockbuster that could change the whole complexion of the roster — Tarik Skubal. The lefty flamethrower is approaching ace territory, and there’s reason to believe Detroit might listen to offers with only a year of control left. The Braves have the prospects. They have the motivation. What they don’t have is exclusivity — nearly every contender with a rotation hole will be placing a call. But if Atlanta could craft a package to land Skubal, it would be a seismic shift in their rotation. Depth, dominance, and a left-handed complement to Spencer Strider? That’s the kind of move that wins October, not just survives it.
So, where does this all lead? To an offseason of high stakes and tight margins. The Braves can’t afford to miss. Dreaming big is fine. But executing smart? That’s what makes champions.
