Atlanta Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos is making moves, and the offseason is already heating up. Fans and analysts alike wonder what Anthopoulos has planned with a series of strategic trades and option decisions that hint at something big brewing in Atlanta.
The Trade That Shocked Braves Fans
Let’s start with the headline move: Anthopoulos traded Jorge Soler, the powerhouse and 2021 World Series MVP, to the Los Angeles Angels for pitcher Griffin Canning. Soler was pivotal in that unforgettable championship run, but moving him out gave Atlanta some valuable financial wiggle room.
Alongside this, the Braves declined Travis d’Arnaud’s option, sending a shockwave through the fanbase. These early choices cleared up some serious logjams for the Braves, especially in the outfield, DH spot, and behind the plate, which was becoming a little crowded.
With d’Arnaud’s departure, it’s evident that the Braves are looking to streamline the lineup and maybe free up some cash to go after bigger targets in other areas—especially with the latest moves to extend pitchers Aaron Bummer and Reynaldo Lopez.
But it’s looking complicated if anyone’s wondering whether this could mean a reunion with clubhouse favorite Joc Pederson, who declined his side of a mutual option. Jarred Kelenic, still under team control until 2028, is creating quite a roadblock.
Plus, the Braves have a lineup stacked with outfield talent—Ronald Acuña Jr., Michael Harris II, Eli White, and Ramon Laureano all have big roles, and with Kelenic in left, the outfield looks pretty set.
Pederson’s Return? Unlikely with Kelenic in the Mix
Let’s be real here: Pederson brought the vibes, the swagger, and that famous pearl necklace to the 2021 season. This made him a fan favorite and a huge personality in the clubhouse. But Anthopoulos’ strategy appears laser-focused on immediate, win-now solutions, and it looks like Pederson’s return may just not be in the cards.
So, where is Anthopoulos likely to go next? Eyes are shifting toward two critical needs—starting pitching and shortstop. With the savings from declining d’Arnaud and reliever Luke Jackson’s options, the Braves have some serious capital to work with.
That could mean re-signing Max Fried, a free agent who would be a major retention for their rotation, or making a bold move for a high-caliber free agent like Blake Snell or Luis Severino. Gerrit Cole, of course, could have been a dazzling option, but his situation with the Yankees’ opt-out drama may be closing that door.
The Braves’ “Win-Now” Blueprint
And then there’s a shortstop. Orlando Arcia’s been reliable, but an upgrade could push the Braves even closer to the top. Potential moves here could include chasing a star free agent like Willy Adames or exploring trade routes for Bo Bichette. This play would signal Anthopoulos’ commitment to keeping the Braves in championship contention.
So, while fans might miss that 2021 nostalgia Pederson brought to the field, it’s clear that this offseason is about one thing for Atlanta: building a championship-caliber roster. Anthopoulos’ moves are saying it loud and clear—the Braves are in win-now mode. And when that’s the goal, it’s not about feel-good stories; it’s about raising that trophy again.
