The Braves made a string of late-season roster moves on Tuesday, headlined by the loss of Ozzie Albies to a fractured hamate bone. His season-ending injury puts a spotlight on Atlanta’s looming decision over his 2026 contract option.
At the same time, the club brought back Charlie Morton in what could be a final chapter with the Braves, while also shuffling bullpen depth.
Albies’ Season Ends With Contract Option Looming
The Braves announced Tuesday that Ozzie Albies fractured a hamate bone in his left hand, ending his 2025 season. The second baseman had rebounded from an early slump to post one of his strongest stretches of the year since July, only to have his momentum cut short in September.
This injury sets up a major offseason decision. Albies has a $7 million club option for 2026, with a $4 million buyout. The Braves must weigh his recent production, durability concerns, and long-term value against potential alternatives. Albies has been a lineup fixture since 2018, and his future in Atlanta is suddenly uncertain.
Morton Returns for Possible Final Chapter in Atlanta
In a surprise move, the Braves re-signed Charlie Morton to a major-league contract just one week after facing him as a member of the Tigers. Morton, 41, was hit hard by Atlanta in Detroit earlier this month but now rejoins the Braves for what could be the final chapter of his career.
For fans, the move carries emotional weight: Morton pitched for Atlanta during earlier runs and brings veteran presence to a roster filled with questions. Even if his role is limited this week, his return adds a sense of closure.
Payamps Claimed, Depth Shuffled
Atlanta also claimed reliever Joel Payamps off waivers, designating Carson Ragsdale for assignment and optioning Jhancarlos Lara to make roster space. Payamps offers low-cost bullpen depth and could compete for a role in spring training.
What These Moves Mean for Atlanta’s Offseason
The combination of Albies’ injury and Morton’s return symbolizes where the Braves stand. Second base is suddenly a question mark, the rotation remains unsettled, and the bullpen continues to churn. Each September move now feels less about 2025 and more about what comes next in 2026.
