This season has been a rough one for the Atlanta Braves, with injuries playing a major role in their struggles. However, the team’s future remains bright, and changes are already being discussed for next season.
In 2024, the Braves are expected to return to form, with key players like Ronald Acuña Jr., Spencer Strider, Austin Riley, and Ozzie Albies all coming back from injuries. Although A.J. Minter and Max Fried are set to test free agency, there’s hope Minter will re-sign with Atlanta. Even if Fried departs, the Braves have several strong arms ready to compete for rotation spots, including Chris Sale, Reynaldo López, and rising stars Spencer Schwellenbach, Ian Anderson, Hurston Waldrep, and A.J. Smith-Shawver.
Looking ahead, the Braves’ roster for next season is largely settled, but one area that could use an upgrade is shortstop. Willy Adames, currently with the Milwaukee Brewers, has been named as a potential free-agent target for Atlanta. Adames, who leads the National League with 121 RBIs and has a solid .253/.334/.470 slash line, would be a valuable addition to the Braves’ lineup. He’s also known for his strong clubhouse presence, which could be a key factor in Atlanta’s decision-making process.
However, signing Adames won’t come cheap. With a projected contract in the $150-200 million range, Braves general manager Alex Anthopoulos will need to weigh whether Adames is worth the investment. Despite the cost, the fit seems perfect on paper, especially since left field and shortstop are the two positions Atlanta can realistically upgrade without disrupting long-term contracts.
While Jarred Kelenic was a notable addition in left field, there’s flexibility for the Braves to make moves if needed. Orlando Arcia could shift into a bench role, and the team will look to shore up its depth across the roster.
Anthopoulos’ offseason decisions will likely focus on both the rotation and the lineup. With the possible departures of Max Fried and Charlie Morton, attention may be drawn to the pitching staff, but improving the offense—particularly at shortstop—remains a priority after a challenging season. The Braves are poised to bounce back, and the moves they make this offseason will be crucial in determining their success.
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