Braves Sign Former Top Prospect For Infield Depth

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Braves Sign Former Top Prospect For Infield Depth
© Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

The Atlanta Braves have added another option to their infield mix, claiming Vidal Bruján off waivers from the Baltimore Orioles ahead of Friday’s series opener against the Marlins.

No corresponding move was needed — the Braves had an open spot on their 40-man roster. The move appears aimed at bolstering infield depth, especially with a doubleheader looming.

Bruján’s name will be familiar to prospect-watchers. Just two seasons ago, he was the No. 4 prospect in the Tampa Bay Rays system and ranked No. 77 overall in baseball, ahead of players like Jarren Duran, Tyler Freeman, Joe Ryan, and MacKenzie Gore. But like many touted prospects, his transition to the majors hasn’t gone as planned.

Atlanta Braves Need Infield Depth

Atlanta Braves Need Infield Depth
© Gregory Fisher Imagn Images

Over parts of five MLB seasons, the 26-year-old has appeared in 238 games, hitting just .193 with a .533 OPS, five homers, and 43 RBIs. His 2025 season has been a whirlwind — starting in the Cubs organization, spending time with their Triple-A Iowa club and 36 games in the majors (.222 average, .523 OPS), before being DFA’d on July 30. Baltimore claimed him, played him in one game (1-for-1), and then removed him from their roster this week.

For Atlanta, Bruján joins Alexis Alvarez, Jonathan Ornelas, and Luke Williams as current infield depth behind the starters. His versatility — he’s played second, third, shortstop, and the outfield — could make him a useful piece in spot starts or late-game situations.

While his bat has yet to click at the big-league level, the Braves are clearly taking a low-risk flier on the athletic switch-hitter, banking on his speed, defense, and pedigree to provide value as they navigate the final stretch of the season.