Alright, Braves Country—things just got a little more interesting down in Gwinnett.
With Spring Training entering its final stretch and roster decisions being made by the minute, the Atlanta Braves have added yet another name to the mix.
Alex Verdugo is officially in the fold, signing a one-year, $1.5 million deal—and yes, he’ll be starting the season in Triple-A. Before anyone panics or gets overly hyped, let’s break this thing down.
The Long Wait Ends for Verdugo
It was a quiet offseason for Verdugo as he did not get a single offer until now. He’s a guy with five-plus seasons under his belt, a World Series ring, and real experience in big markets like L.A. and New York. He had an off year, but still has solid experience in high leverage situation.
The numbers didn’t do him any favors. His one season with the Yankees was his worst full season to date. He slashed just .233/.291/.356 across 149 games, with 13 homers and an 83 OPS+, which is well below the league average. And the postseason? Let’s just say it didn’t help his case—.208 with one homer in 14 games.
The Braves aren’t signing 2023 Verdugo. They’re betting on the 28-year-old who still owns a career .272 batting average. He has shown flashes of gap power, and brings solid outfield defense as well. And they’re getting him at bargain-bin pricing. That’s exactly the kind of calculated depth move that can quietly pay off in May, June, or October.
The Braves Depth Chart Is Taking Shape
Let’s zoom out. Atlanta’s projected outfield—Acuña, Harris, Profar—is set, healthy, and electric. But we saw what happened last season. One injury, one slump, and suddenly you’re giving emergency starts to guys signed off the scrap heap.
That’s where Verdugo fits in. There is no pressure or expectations; just sit tight in Gwinnett and be ready. It’s the same deal with Craig Kimbrel, who also starts the season in Triple-A as he works back into form.
Add James McCann as catching depth, and you will start to see a pattern. The Braves are stacking insurance policies—and they’re doing it before the chaos begins, not after.
Braves Looking Ahead
Spring Training wraps on Sunday. From there, it’s time to head out west, and the Braves start locking in their 26-man squad. Don’t be surprised if Verdugo’s name pops up sooner rather than later.
Whether it’s an injury or just the need for a left-handed bat off the bench, the Braves didn’t bring him in just for fun. They’re playing chess while a lot of teams are still playing checkers.
Opening Day’s almost here—and the Braves? They’re coming in locked, loaded, and layered.
