What a week for Braves fans, and we're just getting started! Tuesday brought some big news from Braves Country, with two major announcements shaking things up.
First up, the long-rumored Braves TV network is becoming a reality. BravesVision is set to launch for the 2026 regular season and beyond, promising to enhance the way fans experience the game.
But that’s not all. The Braves also announced a contract extension with Chris Sale, ensuring he'll be a key part of the roster through 2027, with a club option for 2028. Sale’s extension will pay him $27 million in 2027 and potentially $30 million in 2028, making him the highest-paid player on the team for those years.
These moves signify a new era for the Braves, showcasing their financial stability and strategic vision. Owning their TV network gives them control over broadcasting and streaming, setting the stage for a lucrative future. While they might not have the spending power of the Dodgers or Mets, this financial flexibility means they can make smart moves in free agency and keep their core players intact.
Speaking of core players, the Braves have some time to work out future plans with Ronald Acuña Jr. They hold a club option on his contract through 2028, but securing a long-term deal before then could be crucial. Acuña’s injury history and desire to maximize earnings could complicate negotiations, but the Braves’ willingness to break their usual salary ceiling for Sale suggests they might be ready to invest more heavily in their stars.
The Sale extension raises eyebrows because it surpasses the Braves’ typical $22 million ceiling, which players like Matt Olson, Austin Riley, and Spencer Strider are set to earn in 2027 and 2028. This shift indicates a potential change in strategy, especially with only $59 million committed to payroll for 2029. This could be the year they start a new contract for Acuña, offering him a substantial raise.
While past decisions, like the Freddie Freeman situation, were tough but financially driven, the timing of the Sale extension and BravesVision launch feels like a bold statement from the franchise. It suggests a commitment to retaining talent and maximizing their financial resources.
As for Acuña, the future looks promising. If BravesVision takes off and The Battery continues to thrive, the financial landscape could favor a significant contract extension. Of course, Acuña’s performance and health will play a role, but the groundwork is being laid for a potentially fruitful partnership.
In the end, the Braves are positioning themselves for long-term success, and the outlook for keeping Acuña in Atlanta is brighter than ever. The journey to securing his future with the team will be one to watch, but for now, the Braves seem ready to make it happen.