Braves fans, here we are, a fresh year full of possibilities—and, let’s be honest, questions. The countdown to Spring Training has begun, and it’s time to dissect what Atlanta might have up its sleeve.
From free-agent decisions to predicting breakout stars, let’s dive into what could shape the 2025 season.
The Free Agent Conundrum
Nathan Eovaldi? Off the table. Max Kepler? Gone too. So, where do the Braves turn? Enter Charlie Morton—the 41-year-old veteran who’s not quite ready to ride into the sunset.
Over the past four seasons, Morton’s been a crucial cog in Atlanta’s rotation, mentoring young guns like Spencer Strider and Spencer Schwellenbach. While he may not be a top-tier ace anymore, a one-year, $10 million deal could stabilize the rotation.
Given his track record of durability—30+ starts in each of the last six full seasons—Morton’s experience and reliability might just be the stopgap Atlanta needs.
Breakout Player Potential for the Braves
Can Jarred Kelenic finally deliver on his promise? It feels like we’ve asked this before, but the talent is undeniable.
The former top prospect has shown flashes, hitting 15 homers last year, but his .679 OPS and relegation to the bench by August left fans wanting more. Still just 25, Kelenic has time to find his rhythm.
If he does, the Braves’ $17 million investment could look like a steal, giving them five years of control over a potent offensive weapon.
Braves Prospect to Watch
Blake Burkhalter—remember the name. The righty reliever, fresh off Tommy John surgery, has the makings of a bullpen ace.
His strong start for High-A Rome last season (2.14 ERA over nine starts) showcased his potential before fatigue set in. If Burkhalter stays healthy, he could be the first of several young arms to bolster Atlanta’s bullpen.
Keep an eye on others like JR Ritchie, Drue Hackenberg and Luis De Avila, but Burkhalter looks poised to make a splash in 2025.
Power Surge on the Horizon?
Matt Olson’s 2024 was a rollercoaster, but the late-season surge—14 homers in his final 56 games—has fans dreaming of another record-breaking campaign.
If Olson can correct his fastball struggles and regain his elite barrel rate, he might challenge the 50-homer mark again.
His strong finish suggests the slugger is ready to put last year’s inconsistencies behind him and bring the fireworks in 2025.
What Needs Fixing Before Spring?
The Braves’ to-do list isn’t short. With Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider both sidelined early in the season, Atlanta must decide where to prioritize reinforcements.
Should they bolster the outfield to cover for Acuña’s absence or lock down a starter to steady the rotation while Strider recovers? And let’s not forget the bullpen, where injuries and free-agent departures have left gaps.
The next few weeks will be critical. Will Alex Anthopoulos make a bold move or trust the depth of the farm system?
Either way, Braves Country will be watching closely, eager for answers—and perhaps another parade down Peachtree. For more details on all of this, check out Mark Bowman’s article for MLB.com.
