When it comes to the Atlanta Braves, the team is no stranger to bold moves and high-impact signings.
However, this offseason has been curiously quiet on the Braves’ front, leaving fans scratching their heads.
Still, one particular deal has sparked some chatter—and it’s not one that initially jumps off the page.
Braves “Sneaky-Good” Signing That Could Pay Off Big
Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller singled out the Braves’ acquisition of outfielder Bryan De La Cruz as one of the top 15 “sneaky-good” offseason signings, calling it a classic Alex Anthopoulos bargain that could pay off big.
The deal? A modest $860,000, 1-year contract for a guy who’s shown some serious pop in his bat over the last couple of seasons.
That’s right, De La Cruz has launched 40 home runs in the past two years, which, as Miller pointed out, matches the total homers of William Contreras in that same stretch.
And while it may not be a flashy, headline-grabbing signing, it’s exactly the kind of strategic depth move that’s earned the Braves front office its reputation.
A Stopgap Solution with Serious Upside
Here’s why this signing matters: The Braves need a temporary solution in right field while superstar Ronald Acuña Jr. continues his recovery from a torn ACL.
Enter De La Cruz, who brings three and a half seasons of NL East experience (thanks to his time with the Miami Marlins) and a career slash line of .253/.299/.405 with 54 homers and 199 RBIs.
While his 2024 season was a mixed bag—batting .233 with 21 home runs and a .654 OPS—there’s potential for him to bounce back, especially in a strong Braves lineup. If he does, he could provide a valuable power bat off the bench even after Acuña’s return, likely around late April.
Low-Risk Move with High Reward Potential
And if the gamble doesn’t pan out? The Braves can simply designate De La Cruz for assignment, losing less than $1 million in the process. It’s a low-risk, high-reward move that could look like another Anthopoulos masterstroke by season’s end.
Interestingly, De La Cruz’s arrival wasn’t the only NL East transaction to make Miller’s list. The Philadelphia Phillies also secured two sneaky-good pickups: right-hander Jordan Romano and versatile infielder Amed Rosario.
But for Braves fans, all eyes will be on whether De La Cruz can tap into the form that made him a hot commodity with the Marlins—and whether he can help the Braves maintain their perch atop the division.
