It’s already an exciting offseason for the Atlanta Braves, as they seem to be signaling big plans for 2025 with a series of strategic roster moves. After surprising many by clearing Jorge Soler’s $27 million salary off the books, the Braves also worked to trim costs by renegotiating contracts for pitchers Reynaldo López and Aaron Bummer. But the boldest move yet? Declining the $8 million option on seasoned catcher Travis d’Arnaud is leaving him to explore free agency.
These moves are sparking serious speculation that the Braves are making room for something big. David O’Brien of The Athletic recently connected the dots, suggesting that these salary cuts are all part of a strategy to land one or more high-impact players. Atlanta could be eyeing a shortstop upgrade like Milwaukee Brewers’ Willy Adames or potentially re-signing their star lefty Max Fried, whose contract wrapped up at the end of the 2024 season.
So, why would the Braves let d’Arnaud walk? It’s not as though the Braves don’t value him; d’Arnaud’s veteran presence has been critical behind the plate. But with an eye on boosting offensive production and filling gaps, this may be a calculated risk.
With more financial flexibility, Atlanta could make a splash on someone like Adames, who brings both pop and speed to the lineup. In 2024, Adames posted a .251/.331/.462 line with 32 home runs and 21 stolen bases—far beyond what the Braves got from their primary shortstop, Orlando Arcia, who batted .218 with 17 homers.
A potential Adames signing wouldn’t be cheap, though. His projected six-year, $150 million contract, per The Athletic’s Jim Bowden, means the Braves would need every dollar they’ve cleared to make the numbers work. Adames would be a game-changer for the Braves in the infield and the batting order, allowing Arcia to slide into a more flexible backup role. This move would deepen the roster as they push for another World Series run.
Then there’s Max Fried, a proven ace who could command a hefty deal in his own right. Although the Braves’ rotation has depth, including Spencer Strider’s return and new faces like Chris Sale, Fried is an elite left-hander they’d likely prefer to keep. Re-signing Fried would solidify Atlanta’s pitching for years, providing a balance to their high-powered offense.
With Atlanta’s money-saving moves, the front office has set the stage for a compelling offseason chase. Whether they’re making a full-court press for Adames, pushing to bring back Fried, or possibly both, fans can count on one thing: the Braves are gearing up for something big, and it’s going to be a fun ride.
