If you’re an Atlanta Braves fan, the offseason so far might feel like a slow burn—equal parts anxiety and waiting for the other shoe to drop.
The team is coming off another disappointing postseason exit, and with key roster spots in need of reinforcement, there’s been an unsettling quiet from the front office.
Alex Anthopoulos has made assurances about spending and staying competitive, but blockbuster moves have been scarce. This is leading some fans to wonder what lies ahead.
Marcell Ozuna: A Decision Looms
One of the major questions centers around Marcell Ozuna. After another stellar season as the Braves’ primary designated hitter, the team picked up his 2025 option. But will they lock him in with an extension before Opening Day?
Ozuna’s bat has been essential, but at 34 years old and offering little defensive or baserunning value, the potential deal would likely be modest—two or three years at a manageable average annual value. Still, both sides have incentives to make it work.
Ozuna has thrived in Atlanta, and the Braves need his production. But if Ozuna bets on himself and another 40-homer campaign, he might wait to test the waters of free agency for a bigger payday.
Chipper Jones: Always the Braves
Even amidst offseason uncertainty, it’s comforting to remember the loyalty of Braves legends like Chipper Jones.
The Hall of Famer recently revealed he had the chance to join the Dodgers in his final season but turned it down, joking that Braves fans would’ve “burned [his] house down.” He went into more detail on this story on Foul Territory.
While the Dodgers’ 2012 season ended in mediocrity, Atlanta’s own heartbreak in the Wild Card game that year was at least buffered by knowing Chipper retired in a Braves uniform.
Building the Bullpen on a Budget
The Braves also made a small but notable bullpen move, signing Jordan Weems to a Minor League deal. The right-hander showed promise in 2023 but struggled in other seasons, including 2024.
With Joe Jimenez sidelined, Weems will join other invitees in Spring Training, competing for a spot in a bullpen that could use depth.
Atlanta’s reluctance to dive into high-profile free-agent waters has been a sticking point for fans. Anthopoulos insists the team is willing to cross the luxury tax threshold. However, recent signings like Bryan De La Cruz suggest a preference for bargain moves over big deals.
With time left in the offseason, Braves faithful can only hope the silence gives way to the signature aggression Anthopoulos has shown in the past.
