The Braves have had a peculiar offseason. They have pretty much neglected free agency completely, spending around $3 million total on free agents. However, Alex Anthopoulos has been very active in the trade market, acquiring Sean Murphy, Joe Jiménez, Lucas Luetge, and others. As currently constructed, this team should still be considered the favorites to win the NL East, but that shouldn’t be their goal.
Championships are won by the team with the best 26-man roster from top to bottom. There can be no weak links, and the Braves have a couple of areas that could use bolstering. There isn’t a ton left on the market that will pique Anthopoulos’ interest, but I’ve found four guys that could help out in areas of need — as starters or as depth pieces.
Jurickson Profar
I’m not sure what kind of contract Profar is seeking. I originally imagined he would garner a multi-year deal after the best season of his career, but the market must not be as hot as he expected. If Profar is willing to take a one or two-year contract, the Braves should have some interest. He’s a considerable upgrade over what they currently have in left field, especially defensively.
Adam Duvall
I don’t know how many times I have to write about Adam Duvall this offseason, but he’s still a free agent, and I have no idea why the Braves haven’t pounced. He has the upside to hit 40 homers, is a plus-defender, and was a valuable clubhouse guy. Perhaps Duvall is looking for a multi-year contract or has not recovered well from the wrist surgery that cost him most of last season, but if he’s healthy and looking for a one-year deal, the Braves would be fools not to bring him back.
Elvis Andrus
Andrus is coming off one of his best seasons in recent memory. He also has ties to Ron Washington from their days with the Texas Rangers and is the best shortstop remaining on the market. I wouldn’t mind bringing him in for some insurance at the position, but it’s highly unlikely he produces similar numbers to what he put up in 2022. Andrus will be 34 next season and has produced north of 2.0 fWAR just once since 2017, which was last year. I don’t think he’s much of an upgrade over Arcia, so it probably isn’t worth what it will cost to acquire him.
José Iglesias
Iglesias is another option for the Braves at shortstop, but like Andrus, I’m not sure he’s much of an upgrade. He does have a fantastic contact bat and can play multiple positions, so as a depth piece, he would be a good addition to a bench that is looking very weak right now.
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