Just when it looked like the Atlanta Braves’ 2025 season was slipping away, the front office slammed the panic button — and it may have saved the year.
After stumbling out of the gate with a string of underwhelming performances, injuries, and inconsistent pitching, the Braves have suddenly flipped the script. Thanks to four bold emergency moves in less than two weeks, Atlanta is surging back into contention — and fast.
Here’s how the Braves sparked a stunning turnaround:
Called Up Top Prospect Hurston Waldrep
The Braves didn’t waste time reaching into their talent pipeline. With rotation depth thin and ERAs rising, Atlanta promoted Hurston Waldrep, their flamethrowing right-hander, from Triple-A Gwinnett. The 22-year-old didn’t disappoint — striking out 9 over 6 shutout innings in his MLB debut and injecting life into a rotation that desperately needed a spark.
“He looked fearless out there,” manager Brian Snitker said. “We needed that energy.”
Signed Veteran Reliever Josh Hader
With the bullpen blowing late leads and closer roles uncertain, the Braves shocked everyone by signing Josh Hader off the free-agent market in a one-year, high-incentive deal. The former All-Star closer wasted no time locking down games, bringing stability and swagger to the back end of the bullpen.
“When Hader’s out there, you can feel the confidence on the field shift,” said catcher Sean Murphy.
Traded for Utility Slugger Brandon Drury
Desperate for consistent production from the bottom half of the lineup, the Braves executed a trade with the Angels to bring in Brandon Drury, a versatile infielder with power and postseason experience. Since joining the squad, Drury has been on fire — batting over .300 with timely RBIs and solidifying the infield with his glove.
Shuffled the Lineup – Moved Acuña to Leadoff, Olson Down
Perhaps the most underrated move was strategic. Manager Brian Snitker retooled the lineup, shifting Ronald Acuña Jr. back into the leadoff spot and sliding Matt Olson to the 5-hole. The change has reignited the top of the order, with Acuña catching fire and setting the tone early — while giving Olson more RBI chances with less pressure.
The Braves have won 8 of their last 10 games, including a sweep of division rival Philadelphia. The clubhouse energy is different. The dugout looks looser. And just like that, Atlanta’s early-season disaster might now be a distant memory.
“These moves weren’t just panic — they were calculated,” said one NL scout. “And they might’ve saved their season.”
With the NL East tightening up and momentum shifting back to Atlanta, it seems the Braves may have weathered the worst of the storm. Buckle up — this season is far from over.
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