We’ve hit that point in the season where reality starts knocking — and in Atlanta’s case, it’s practically pounding on the door. The Braves, sitting 12 games under .500, are on the wrong side of the standings, and suddenly that postseason dream from just a few years ago feels like it was from another era.
So, what happens now? You start looking at who isn’t part of the long-term plan — and the answer is starting to look a lot like Marcell Ozuna.
Marcell Ozuna on the Outs?
Let’s not sugarcoat it — Ozuna is struggling. Sure, his season line of .235/.361/.390 isn’t catastrophic, and a 115 wRC+ still says “league average or better.” But dig a little deeper, and the wheels have been wobbling for a while. Over his last 153 plate appearances, he’s slashing a grim .165/.257/.271. That’s the kind of production that gets you benched — and that’s exactly what’s happening.
Manager Brian Snitker isn’t hiding the strategy anymore. Coming out of the All-Star break, Sean Murphy and Drake Baldwin have taken turns at DH while Ozuna rides the pine. Snitker says Ozuna “won’t rot” on the bench, but let’s be honest — if you’re only starting because you homered off Marcus Stroman once upon a time, you’re not a centerpiece anymore. You’re a placeholder.
Braves Trade Winds Swirling
Marcell Ozuna is already talking like a guy preparing for his next stop, telling reporters he’ll “stay positive” and leave trade talks to his agent and Alex Anthopoulos.
That’s a telling quote — not just because he’s acknowledging discussions are underway, but because Ozuna didn’t flex the no-trade muscle he absolutely has. With 10+ years of service and five with the same club, he can block any deal. But right now, he’s playing it cool — and maybe even welcoming a fresh start.
If the Braves move Ozuna, he won’t be the only one. Raisel Iglesias — another expiring contract — is also drawing attention. And now there’s a new wrinkle: Pierce Johnson, Atlanta’s 34-year-old reliever having a career-best season, is suddenly available.
In 35 2/3 innings, Johnson’s rocking a 2.78 ERA, a near-28% strikeout rate, and a career-low walk rate. Since June? A nasty 1.80 ERA and a 16-to-5 K/BB ratio. Add in his affordable $7 million club option for 2026 — with only $2.6 million left this year and a $250K buyout — and you’ve got a sneaky strong bullpen target. He’s picked up eight holds and a save, and he’s looking like a lock to be moved if the Braves lean into sell mode.
What’s Next in Atlanta?
Let’s be real. This isn’t about panic. It’s about clarity. Ozuna’s production, contract, and current status make him an obvious trade candidate. Johnson could boost a contender’s bullpen and bring back real value. Iglesias is a closer on a non-contending team. The pieces are there.
The Braves aren’t throwing in the towel — but they’re being smart. When the playoffs are slipping away, it’s not about nostalgia. It’s about reloading for the next run.
So if Ozuna, Iglesias, or Johnson are on your favorite team’s radar — don’t be surprised if Anthopoulos pulls the trigger. Because in Atlanta, the second half of this season may be less about chasing October and more about setting up 2025.
