Switching agents ahead of a crucial free agency period is always a move worth examining, and that’s exactly what Atlanta Braves reliever A.J. Minter is doing. As he gears up to test the market, Minter has decided to part ways with Excel Sports Management, the agency many Braves fans know for its association with players like Dansby Swanson, Jason Heyward, and even former Brave Freddie Freeman.
Now, he’s putting his trust in the Bledsoe Agency—a move that could signal his intent to secure the most advantageous deal possible for the 2025 season and beyond. Minter’s decision comes on the heels of a solid 2024 season. In his 39 appearances with the Braves, he’s posted an impressive 2.62 ERA, a WHIP of 1.02, and racked up 35 strikeouts.
Those stats put him in an excellent position to attract serious interest on the market, making his agent choice all the more important. It’s a calculated move and maybe even a cautious one. After all, if Minter learned anything from his former teammate Freddie Freeman’s saga, it would be that representation could make or break these pivotal negotiations.
Remember Freeman’s departure? Excel Sports Management led those contract talks that ultimately saw him sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers instead of sticking with the Braves. It was an emotional shift for Freeman, who, after a tearful return to Atlanta, parted ways with his agent.
While rumors circulated that Freeman wasn’t kept fully informed during those negotiations, Excel denied those claims. But the damage was done—Freeman, feeling let down by the process, decided to make a change. That drama might have left a lasting impression on Minter. No player wants to feel blindsided or regretful when the ink dries on their contract, and Minter’s new move shows he’s trying to avoid exactly that.
So, why the Bledsoe Agency? Frankly, information about them is sparse. Their website doesn’t offer much beyond an email address, and their LinkedIn profile touts “over 20+ years of experience representing elite professional baseball players.”
Whatever Bledsoe pitched to Minter, though, it clearly hit home. Maybe it’s a fresh perspective or a smaller agency approach that Minter believes will keep him better informed. It’s possible he wants an agent who’s going to work closely and communicate transparently to navigate his first big free agency experience.
As the offseason approaches, all eyes will be on Minter’s next move. Will he re-sign with Atlanta, the team he’s been with his entire career, or will he venture out to see what other offers come his way? Whatever the case, the switch to Bledsoe indicates that Minter is focused on making the most of this opportunity, ensuring he has the right people in his corner for what could be the biggest decision of his career.
