The Atlanta Braves made a strategic move this offseason by trading Jorge Soler to the Los Angeles Angels, a decision that has opened up intriguing options for Atlanta’s roster. With both Ronald Acuña Jr. and Marcell Ozuna slated to cover the outfield and designated hitter positions, Soler’s role became more tenuous.
This is especially true with the uncertain health status of Acuña, who’s recovering from his second ACL injury, and the pending free agency of Ozuna, should Atlanta decline his club option. Yet, by offloading Soler, the Braves signaled confidence that Acuña would be ready early in 2025 and that Ozuna’s option would likely be exercised.
Beyond Soler’s departure, the Braves gained a notable financial boost—$10.5 million, thanks to the difference in salaries between Soler and right-handed pitcher Griffin Canning, whom Atlanta received in return. This newfound financial flexibility begs the question: how will the Braves allocate these extra funds?
While a blockbuster signing like extending lefty ace Max Fried or targeting a top-tier shortstop such as Willy Adames remains possible, the Braves have plenty of other directions they could take. Here’s a look at three practical options for that extra $10.5 million.
Matthew Boyd – Right-Handed Starter
One area where Atlanta could utilize these funds is in reinforcing the rotation. The Athletic’s Jim Bowden recently identified Matthew Boyd as a strong fit for the Braves, estimating that he could command a one-year, $10 million deal. This aligns almost perfectly with the financial room created by the Soler trade.
Boyd, who rebounded in 2024 after Tommy John surgery, posted a respectable 2-2 record with a 2.72 ERA, a 1.134 WHIP, and 46 strikeouts in just under 40 innings. Adding Boyd would give Atlanta flexibility if Fried exits and could also allow Boyd to take on Charlie Morton’s role should Morton retire.
Blake Treinen – Relief Pitcher
If the Braves lose Fried to free agency—and potentially to the Dodgers, the 2024 World Series champions—they could retaliate by targeting a Los Angeles reliever. Blake Treinen could be an intriguing option. Although Treinen missed the 2023 season due to shoulder surgery, he returned in 2024 with a vengeance, recording a 7-3 record with a 1.93 ERA, 0.943 WHIP, and 56 strikeouts in 46.2 innings. At age 37, Treinen likely wouldn’t demand a long-term contract, and his veteran presence could provide Atlanta with a solid replacement for free-agent lefty A.J. Minter.
Paul DeJong – Shortstop
While signing a high-profile shortstop like Adames remains ideal, Atlanta could explore a more budget-friendly option by signing Paul DeJong. Known for his power-hitting capabilities, DeJong smacked 24 homers last season and has logged 20+ homers in three of his seven MLB seasons.
Although he posted a batting average of .227, his power numbers outshine Orlando Arcia, who hit .218 with fewer homers. DeJong’s cost-effective profile could let Atlanta invest the remainder of the Soler savings in Fried’s extension or bring in another high-impact starting pitcher, like 2024 Cy Young winner Blake Snell.
Final Thoughts
Braves General Manager Alex Anthopoulos has indicated that the team’s budget is increasing, signaling that Atlanta might be ready to make a splash in free agency. Whether the Braves choose to bolster the rotation, add bullpen depth, or take a calculated risk on a power-hitting shortstop, the Soler trade has set them up with the flexibility to improve their roster in strategic ways. By retaining Fried, pursuing another marquee pitcher, or making incremental upgrades, the Braves are poised to enter the 2025 season as a contender with an even more balanced roster.
