After an Atlanta Braves season that left a lot to be desired in the playoffs, it seemed like the front office was gearing up to make some noise.
Payroll was trimmed, rumors were swirling, and big names were getting tossed around in whispers and speculation.
But here we are, with the offseason moving along and nothing. The reality? Atlanta might be looking to reset those luxury tax penalties, which means splashy moves could be off the table for now.
But hey, just because things are quiet doesn’t mean there’s nothing happening. There’s always something cooking with this club, and here’s a look at a few storylines that Braves fans should watch.
Tyler Matzek: The comeback attempt Braves fans are rooting for
If you’re a Braves fan, you don’t forget 2021. And if you don’t remember Tyler Matzek’s heroics that postseason, were you even watching?
Matzek was clutch, playing a critical role in helping Atlanta secure that long-awaited World Series title. Since then? Well, it’s been a tough road.
Injuries have taken their toll, and after missing the entire 2024 season, Matzek now finds himself a free agent at 34, trying to prove he’s still got what it takes.
The good news? He’s not giving up. Matzek has been grinding, and he’s set to hold a showcase for scouts this Thursday in hopes of landing a new deal.
Could the Braves be interested in a reunion? It’s tough to say, but if he looks anything like his former self, there’s no doubt fans would love to see him back in the mix.
Christian Bethancourt: Still in the game
Remember when Christian Bethancourt was supposed to be the guy behind the plate for the Braves? Feels like forever ago, doesn’t it?
Once considered the top-catching prospect in the game, Betancourt’s journey has taken him all over the league—from San Diego to Oakland, Tampa Bay to Miami, and most recently, the Cubs.
And guess what? He’s not done yet. The veteran catcher just inked a minor league deal with the Blue Jays, complete with an invite to spring training.
It’s honestly impressive that he’s still finding opportunities a decade after his days as a Braves top prospect. Say what you will, but the guy has stuck around and continues to grind it out.
Didier Fuentes: A name to watch in the Braves’ system
When it comes to Braves pitching prospects, names like AJ Smith-Shawver, Hurston Waldrep, and Cam Caminiti tend to dominate the conversation. But here’s a name you might want to get familiar with—Didier Fuentes.
The 19-year-old righty made some serious noise in Low-A last season, posting a 2.74 ERA over 18 appearances (17 of those being starts). He has some electric swing-and-miss stuff, and his funky low-slot delivery paired with a lively fastball and sharp slider has scouts taking notice.
If he wants to stick in a big-league rotation long-term, he’s going to need to develop a few more weapons in his arsenal. But at just 19, there’s plenty of time to figure it all out.
So, while things may seem quiet on the surface, there’s always something brewing in Braves Country. Whether it’s old heroes trying to make a comeback, former top prospects still chasing the dream, or young arms making their way through the system, the story never really stops.
