The Braves have made several moves in the early days of the offseason, but all of them involve shedding payroll.
The biggest money saver was Alex Anthopoulos trading Jorge Soler and the entirety of the two years and $32 million remaining on his contract to the Angels. Then, Atlanta’s GM reworked the deals of Aaron Bummer and Reynaldo Lopez, saving the Braves around $7 million combined. In the most shocking money saving move, the Braves declined Travis d’Arnaud’s $8 million option.
It’s signaled a potentially big move coming down the pike, and Alex Anthopoulos confirmed as much. According to Justin Toscano, AA said they’re choosing payroll flexibility because they feel like there will be some “opportunities” this offseason.
Alex Anthopoulos said the Braves chose to go down the path of adding payroll flexibility because they feel like there'll be some opportunities this offseason. They don't know where everything will end up, but they wanted that flexibility.
— Justin Toscano (@JustinCToscano) November 5, 2024
So, what could those opportunities be?
Willy Adames is the name that springs to the mind initially. Orlando Arcia has been a thorn in the side of fans since his antics in the 2023 NLCS against the Phillies, but the Dodgers are also reportedly interested in Adames’ services. So, even if the Braves are gearing up to make a serious run at the top free agent shortstop, the Dodgers will fork over the necessary funds if they want him, and there’s nothing Anthopoulos can do about it.
The outfield is another area where a splash could come. Ronald Acuna Jr. won’t be ready for Opening Day, and Jarred Kelenic can’t be expected to be a full-time starter in left field.
What about a splash in the starting pitching market? According to Mark Bowman, Alex Anthopoulos has his eyes on two-time All-Star Nathan Eovaldi. With Spencer Strider expected to miss some time, the rotation becomes a focus for Anthopoulos, so maybe those savings will be allocated to a run at another starter. The bullpen is also a priority with A.J. Minter testing free agency and Joe Jimenez potentially out for the entire 2025 season after undergoing knee surgery.
What was thought to be a straightforward offseason has turned into one that will be filled with rumors and moves. Buckle up, Braves Country, these next few months will feature a lot of transactions.
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David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire
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