In a pivotal offseason shuffle, the Braves made a series of calculated decisions ahead of the deadline to tender contracts to arbitration-eligible players, and while none were shocking, the implications speak volumes about the franchise’s current roster strategy and long-term planning.
Former All-Star Alek Manoah Hits the Market Again
The most headline-catching move was the decision to non-tender right-handers Alek Manoah and Carson Ragsdale, effectively allowing both to enter free agency. It’s a sharp turn in particular for Manoah, who, not long ago, was one of the brightest young arms in the American League. The former Toronto Blue Jays ace burst onto the scene with dominance, earning an All-Star nod and finishing third in Cy Young voting in 2022. But inconsistency and physical setbacks have plagued him since. Atlanta took a low-risk flyer on Manoah toward the end of the 2025 season, hoping to capture some of that past brilliance. That experiment, for now, has ended, though the Braves may still be interested in bringing him back on a minor league deal, where the risk would be even lower.
Carson Ragsdale’s Ping-Pong Between Team Continues
Carson Ragsdale, meanwhile, is no stranger to the waiver wire. The Braves have claimed him twice after the Orioles designated him for assignment, signaling a persistent interest in his potential. Ragsdale’s numbers may not jump off the page, but Atlanta’s repeated efforts to retain him suggest they see value in his developmental arc, whether on the big league roster or as depth in Gwinnett. Whether that interest materializes into another minor league pact remains to be seen.
Dylan Lee Stays With The Braves – For Now
On the flip side, the Braves did tender a contract to left-handed reliever Dylan Lee, but not without a caveat. The two sides failed to reach terms ahead of the deadline, sending them down the arbitration path. While that process can occasionally get tense, Lee remains under team control, and the Braves have shown confidence in his ability to deliver in high-leverage bullpen roles. Arbitration can sometimes spark friction, but it’s also routine, and this situation, at least for now, feels like business as usual.
These moves reflect a front office that remains aggressive but selective. With a deep core already in place and the National League landscape as competitive as ever, the Braves are clearly unwilling to let sentiment or sunk costs dictate their decision-making. The message is clear: performance rules, and every roster spot must earn its keep.
