The Atlanta Braves may not be blowing it up before the 2025 trade deadline, but don’t let the quiet exterior fool you — major changes are brewing in the background. According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the Braves are already laying the groundwork for a potential roster overhaul this offseason, and it could involve fan-favorite core players.
No, this isn’t the fire sale some media members seem to be fantasizing about — Ronald Acuña Jr. isn’t going anywhere. However, the club is increasingly viewed as a modest seller at the deadline, with veterans like Marcell Ozuna, Raisel Iglesias, and Pierce Johnson expected to be traded. But the bigger shake-up could come after the season.
Albies, Harris, Murphy? All Could Be Trade Chips This Winter
As surprising as it may sound, Ozzie Albies, Michael Harris II, and even Sean Murphy are names being floated as potential offseason trade pieces. The logic is the Braves are struggling in 2025, and while injuries have played a massive role, they’re not getting enough from players they’ve previously banked on.
Albies and Harris, in particular, have had down years, and while both are still young with strong resumes, their trade value drops the longer the struggles continue. That’s why a bounce-back second half might actually increase the odds of a trade — if they regain form, Atlanta could sell high instead of risking another year of uncertainty.
Murphy Could Be a Luxury the Braves Decide to Cash In
Then there’s Sean Murphy, who’s quietly having one of the best seasons of his career. He’s been solid at the plate and behind it, but he’s also under contract through 2029 at $15 million a year — and the Braves already have Drake Baldwin knocking on the door. Baldwin’s performance and cheap control make Murphy a valuable, expendable asset if Atlanta wants to address other holes in the roster.
That said, moving Murphy may not happen unless Baldwin is fully ready to take over. But the Braves are known for being proactive, not sentimental. If the right deal lines up, don’t be shocked.
This Isn’t a Panic Move — It’s a Reset
Let’s be clear, this is not about overreacting to one bad season. However, Atlanta’s current formula isn’t working, and with the farm system somewhat thin and financial flexibility limited, the Braves are exploring ways to reconfigure without a full teardown. They’re not gutting the roster — Acuña, Olson, Riley, and Strider are staying put. But they also can’t afford to just roll it back again and hope for the best.
This team was built to contend, not tread water. If they have to move controllable talent to fill pressing needs — rotation depth, bullpen help, offensive consistency — they’ll do it.
So while the deadline may stay quiet beyond some obvious rentals, don’t get too comfortable. The real moves? They may be waiting for this winter. And if names like Albies or Harris are suddenly on the block? You heard it coming.
