Atlanta’s bullpen has fueled speculation all season. As free agency nears, the Braves might look outside to stabilize their late innings. MLB Trade Rumors’ 2025-26 Free Agents list includes relievers like Wandy Peralta, Taylor Rogers, Gregory Soto, Colin Poche, and Ryan Yarbrough.
Relief arms often carry the greatest turnover and volatility, but this class already shows depth at both the premium and value levels. A report from JustBaseball’s survey of top upcoming relievers underscores that the market could be particularly deep this winter.
Why Relief Help Makes Sense for Braves
The shift is understandable: in 2025, Atlanta rotated through relievers frequently, with few dependable late-inning options. While their starters and developmental arms receive much of the attention, relievers often swing tight games.
If the Braves fall short of internal fixes, adding an experienced bullpen piece could reduce blowups, stabilize bridge innings, and free up younger arms for high-leverage development.
Names That Could Make Sense for Atlanta
From the free agent projections:
- Wandy Peralta – veteran lefty, recurring in MLBTR’s lists.
- Taylor Rogers – another lefty with multi-inning flexibility.
- Gregory Soto – power arm, albeit sometimes inconsistent.
- Colin Poche – undervalued swingman profile.
- Ryan Yarbrough – more long-relief / bulk potential.
None are unassailable fits — cost, health, and usage history will matter — but the names are already in the market conversation, giving speculative substance.
Skepticism & Constraints
Of course, adding bullpen pieces isn’t without risk. Relievers can crumble under new roles, and performance isn’t guaranteed. Some of these free agents may demand more money than Atlanta wants to commit.
Furthermore, the Braves’ own internal parts (prospects, minor league arms) might be their first focus — especially for flexibility and keeping payroll nimble.
What This Means for Atlanta’s Offseason
If September auditions fail to deliver enough clarity in the bullpen, the Braves could be active in free agency’s relief tiers. Whether they chase a high-end arm or a multi-year depth piece, the move will signal either short-term bandwidth or a push toward sustained stability.
