If you’re trying to make sense of the Atlanta Braves’ 2025 trade deadline, you’re not alone — because even with more details coming to light, the picture remains as confusing as ever.
Despite being declared sellers and reportedly dangling several key pending free agents, a new report from The Athletic’s Dan Hayes reveals that the Braves were also one of the two most aggressive teams pursuing Twins All-Star outfielder Byron Buxton. He is a player under contract, under control, and in no rush to leave Minnesota. So what gives?
Buxton’s Not Going Anywhere and He’s Made That Clear
First, let’s talk about Byron Buxton, the Georgia native who has been with the Twins his entire career and wants to keep it that way.
“It’s always good to be wanted,” Buxton told The Athletic. “But the only place I want is Minnesota… I ain’t got but one place on my mind.”
Even if the Braves (or Mets) pushed for a deal, it wouldn’t matter — Buxton holds no-trade protection through 2026 and has already earned 10-and-5 rights, meaning he can veto any trade as a long-tenured veteran.
This wasn’t happening unless he wanted it to happen. And clearly, he didn’t.
Why Were the Braves Interested?
That’s the more fascinating piece. Because for a team that sold off relievers and is currently well out of the postseason picture, Atlanta showing interest in a 30-year-old center fielder with a long-term deal suggests that this wasn’t a win-now move.
This was a retooling move. Possibly a 2026-and-beyond recalibration. And it raises one big question: How would Buxton fit?
A few theories are floating:
- Michael Harris II has been mentioned in offseason trade rumors. If the Braves were quietly planning to move him, Buxton could have been a replacement — though that seems unlikely without more concrete smoke.
- Ronald Acuña Jr. is coming off multiple injuries and is currently a DH while battling more soreness. Perhaps Buxton would’ve allowed them to shift Acuña to DH permanently, freeing the outfield logjam.
- Marcell Ozuna, who’s also been occupying DH, is in his walk year. Maybe this was the beginning of a post-Ozuna blueprint.
Of course, this is all speculation — but that’s the point. The move doesn’t align with a clear timeline unless Atlanta’s front office sees 2025 as a bridge year, not a lost one.
A Conflicted Deadline Strategy For the Braves
The Braves shipped out arms at the deadline which signaled a soft-sell approach. But now, with this Buxton interest, it seems they may have had two hands on the wheel, steering in different directions.
Were they sellers? Buyers? Plotting a secret roster makeover?
We don’t know how far talks went, or what Atlanta was willing to give up. But the mere pursuit of Buxton tells us one thing for sure: The Braves aren’t standing pat.
Their front office may not have pulled off a blockbuster, but they’re actively exploring ways to reshape the roster, and nothing — not even long-standing cornerstones — appears untouchable.
Buxton didn’t bite. But the philosophy behind the interest could be a preview of a very active offseason in Atlanta.
And with reports already hinting that Michael Harris II could be dangled this winter, the Braves may not be done surprising anyone anytime soon.
