With just over two weeks to go until the regular season kicks off, the Atlanta Braves' Opening Day roster is starting to take shape, though not without some bumps along the way.
In a span of less than two weeks, the Braves faced a couple of significant setbacks. Outfielder and designated hitter Jurickson Profar received a 162-game suspension following a second PED violation within a year. Adding to the woes, pitcher Joey Wentz suffered an ACL tear, sidelining him for the entire 2026 season.
Let's dive into the latest projection for the Braves' Opening Day roster, keeping in mind that this is based on current 40-man roster members and those in camp, assuming everyone is healthy when the season starts. Of course, injuries and last-minute acquisitions could still shake things up.
Position Players
- Catcher: Drake Baldwin
- First Base: Matt Olson
- Second Base: Ozzie Albies
- Shortstop: Mauricio Dubón
- Third Base: Austin Riley
- Right Field: Ronald Acuña Jr.
- Center Field: Michael Harris II
- Left Field: Mike Yastrzemski
With Profar out, the designated hitter spot is up for grabs. Veteran Dominic Smith currently seems the likely choice, though a right-handed bat would be preferable. Ben Gamel, another lefty veteran, is also in the mix.
Bench: Jonah Heim, Eli White, Jorge Mateo, Kyle Farmer, Dominic Smith
Wild Cards: Nacho Alvarez Jr., Ben Gamel, Jose Azucar, Brett Wisely
Luke Williams has struggled at the plate, making his inclusion on the team unlikely. Brett Wisely, who had a brief stint with the Braves last season, could be a versatile option given his ability to play both infield and outfield.
Jose Azucar, after a brief appearance last season, might be a reserve outfield option if needed. Nacho Alvarez Jr., currently in the WBC, is another name to watch, though he might start in Triple-A to get more at-bats.
Pitchers
- Starting Pitchers: Chris Sale, Spencer Strider, Reynaldo Lopez, Grant Holmes, Bryce Elder, JR Ritchie
The pitching rotation has taken a hit with injuries to Hurston Waldrop, Joey Wentz, and Spencer Schwellenbach. JR Ritchie steps up to fill a spot, possibly just for the first couple of weeks, with Holmes ready to provide long relief.
- Bullpen: Raisel Iglesias, Robert Suarez, Dylan Lee, Tyler Kinley, Aaron Bummer, Joel Payamps, Jose Suárez
Jose Suárez earns the final bullpen spot thanks to his ability to handle multiple innings, as demonstrated in his appearances last season.
Wild Cards: Martín Peréz, Hayden Harris, Dylan Dodd, James Karinchak
Hayden Harris and James Karinchak remain on the bubble, with strong performances potentially earning them a spot. Martín Peréz could also be a call-up option if the Braves decide against starting Ritchie. Dylan Dodd’s option status might work against him, but he’s still in the mix.
As we inch closer to Opening Day, the Braves are navigating roster challenges with a mix of veteran presence and emerging talent. Keep an eye on these developments as the team looks to solidify its lineup and rotation.