The Atlanta Braves are looking to turn the page after a forgettable season that saw them finish 76-86 and well outside the playoff picture. For a franchise used to competing deep into October, that kind of year doesn’t sit well - and the front office is moving quickly to make sure it doesn’t happen again.
So far, they’ve been active in addressing key areas, bringing in closer Raisel Iglesias, right-hander Robert Suarez, and versatile infielder Ha-Seong Kim. These moves show a clear intent: get better, and do it fast. But while those signings help patch some holes, the Braves still have work to do, particularly when it comes to adding pop to the lineup and possibly shoring up the hot corner.
Third base remains a question mark, and the middle of the batting order could use a jolt of power - the kind of bat that can change a game with one swing. That’s why you shouldn’t be shocked if Atlanta gets aggressive in the coming weeks. This is a team that knows its window is open, and it’s not afraid to make bold moves to keep it that way.
One of those bold moves was the one-year, $20 million deal with Ha-Seong Kim - a contract that’s already raising eyebrows. Some around the league view it as a significant overpay, especially for a short-term piece. The thinking is that Atlanta paid a premium to avoid a longer commitment, essentially buying flexibility at a higher cost.
Critics have pointed to players like Bo Bichette as potentially better long-term investments, even if they would’ve required a more substantial commitment. Bichette, who’s expected to transition to second base in 2026, is still available, and it’s fair to wonder whether the Braves could’ve made a play there instead.
But the Braves clearly valued the short-term nature of Kim’s deal. They likely felt more comfortable with a one-year commitment, even if it meant spending a little extra. Kim brings defensive versatility and a solid all-around game, and in a year where the Braves need to bounce back quickly, they’re betting he can be a key contributor without locking them into a lengthy contract.
With a few position-player moves already in the books, the focus now shifts to the pitching staff - and that’s where things could get even more interesting. The Braves are expected to pursue another frontline starter to help anchor the rotation in what’s shaping up to be a brutally competitive NL East.
Names like Chris Bassitt and Mitch Keller are already surfacing as potential targets. Both would bring stability and upside to a rotation that could use another dependable arm behind its top-tier talent. In a division where every series feels like a playoff matchup, depth on the mound isn’t a luxury - it’s a necessity.
Bottom line: the Braves aren’t sitting still. They’ve made some calculated moves, some riskier than others, but the message is clear - last season wasn’t good enough, and they’re not planning to let it happen again.
Keep an eye on Atlanta. They’ve got money to spend, holes to fill, and a front office that’s not afraid to make noise.