Jim Bowden doesn’t see Braves making a blockbuster move this winter

Braves Alex Anthopoulos

To this point, the Atlanta Braves’ offseason has been marked more by subtractions than additions. The only notable move thus far was trading Jorge Soler to the Angels, a decision aimed at shedding payroll. Beyond that, the activity has been limited to minor depth acquisitions, leaving Braves Country feeling restless as other teams around the league make splashy signings and trades to bolster their rosters.

However, it’s crucial to remember the long-term strategy Alex Anthopoulos has implemented since taking the reins in Atlanta. By securing the core players to team-friendly, long-term deals, Anthopoulos has significantly raised the franchise’s floor for years to come. The Braves are built for sustained success and rarely face the need for sweeping roster overhauls.

The club needs ancillary pieces. Anthopoulos needs to improve the margins, but I wouldn’t rule out a significant splash just yet, even if Jim Bowden of The Athletic doesn’t expect the Braves to make any “huge” moves.

Do you expect Alex Anthopoulos and the Braves to make any significant moves this winter? — No name listed

I don’t see the Braves making any huge moves, although they would like to improve their rotation after losing both Max Fried and Charlie Morton to free agency. (It’s unclear where the 41-year-old Morton will land.) In addition, Anthopoulos is always looking to add bullpen depth.

It’s hard to imagine the Braves entering the 2025 season with their roster as currently constructed. While pitching remains a priority, Atlanta’s most glaring issue lies in the outfield.

The Braves simply cannot start the season with Michael Harris II as the only healthy, returning starter in the outfield. Jarred Kelenic deserves a chance to prove his worth while Ronald Acuña Jr. works his way back to full strength, but even if Kelenic thrives, that still leaves a glaring hole in right field.

Counting on Marcell Ozuna to handle regular outfield duties would be a major gamble, one that feels untenable for a team with championship aspirations. It’s clear Atlanta needs to add at least one proven, everyday outfielder before Opening Day.

The Braves could also use another starter and high-leverage reliever. Those needs might not necessarily warrant a “significant” or “huge” move, but it’s not totally out of the realm of possibilities. Of course, the deeper into the winter we get, the less likely a blockbuster move comes to fruition just purely based on the availability of marquee targets available.

Photographer: David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire

 

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