The Atlanta Braves have faced a challenging season, largely due to numerous injuries, but they are expected to bounce back next year. Key players like Ronald Acuña Jr., Spencer Strider, Austin Riley, and Ozzie Albies are all slated to return, giving the team a strong core to build around. While A.J. Minter and Max Fried are set to enter free agency, there is a good chance Minter will re-sign with Atlanta. Although Fried may depart, the Braves have several promising pitchers ready to compete for rotation spots, including Spencer Strider, Chris Sale, Reynaldo Lopez, and Spencer Schwellenbach. Young talents like Ian Anderson, Hurston Waldrep, and A.J. Smith-Shawver will also vie for a place in the rotation.
The Braves’ roster for next season is mostly set, but there are a few areas where they can improve, with shortstop being one of the most notable. Willy Adames, a potential free agent, has been mentioned as a strong fit for Atlanta. Adames, who plays for the Milwaukee Brewers, is having an impressive season, leading the National League with 121 RBIs and posting a solid .253/.334/.470 slash line, along with a 121 OPS+. Known for his defensive skills and positive influence in the locker room, Adames would be a valuable addition to the Braves’ lineup.
Braves general manager Alex Anthopoulos highly values a player’s locker room presence, which makes Adames an appealing target. However, the main question is whether Anthopoulos will be willing to offer the sizable contract Adames is expected to command, which could range from $150 to $200 million.
Atlanta doesn’t have many areas to revamp the lineup without disrupting long-term contracts, with left field and shortstop being the primary positions for potential upgrades. The team recently invested in Jarred Kelenic, but if he doesn’t perform, they may consider it a sunk cost. Orlando Arcia, meanwhile, could transition into a bench role.
The offseason will be crucial for the Braves, especially if Max Fried and Charlie Morton leave, as many anticipate. While the focus might be on pitching, particularly the rotation, the Braves’ lineup will also need attention to ensure they remain competitive next season.
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