The Atlanta Braves are entering the offseason facing several key questions after a disappointing 2025 season that saw them miss the playoffs for the first time since 2017 [5]. With a barrage of pitching injuries and underwhelming offensive performances, the Braves can't simply rely on better health to guarantee improvement next year [5]. General Manager Alex Anthopoulos will likely explore upgrades at multiple roster spots, leading to speculation about potential player movement and acquisitions [5, 15].
Ozuna's Potential Departure and Offensive Needs
One of the most prominent questions revolves around designated hitter Marcell Ozuna, who is predicted by some to sign with the New York Mets, a National League East rival [1]. Losing Ozuna would create a significant hole in the Braves' lineup, and the team will need to consider how to replace his offensive production. The Braves were oddly quiet last offseason, a deviation from their previous spending habits, so their approach to free agency this year will be closely watched [15]. The team may consider several top free agents to bolster their roster [15].
Adding to the offensive considerations is the situation with second baseman Ozzie Albies [2]. While Albies remains a key player, the Braves may need to find ways to maximize his potential and address any inconsistencies in his performance [2].
Pitching Staff Recovery and Standout Performances
The Braves' pitching staff endured a series of setbacks in 2025, with injuries to key players like Spencer Schwellenbach and AJ Smith-Shawver, both of whom showed promise before their seasons were cut short [4]. Grant Holmes' season also ended prematurely due to a partially torn UCL [4]. The team hopes that Chris Sale and Spencer Strider will be healthy and ready to contribute in 2026 [4]. Despite the injuries, there were some impactful pitching performances throughout the season. Chris Sale's September 16th start against the Nationals, where he pitched eight scoreless innings with nine strikeouts, was particularly noteworthy [8]. Several other starts were impactful, showcasing individual brilliance even in a challenging season [9, 10, 11].
In the Arizona Fall League, Luke Sinnard has been a standout performer, posting three scoreless innings with five strikeouts in one appearance [14]. Sinnard's ability to generate "swing-and-miss" numbers without allowing hard hits has been a positive sign for the Braves' farm system [12]. Jim Jarvis has also impressed with his base-stealing prowess, going 3-for-3 on stolen bases in one game and maintaining a perfect 11-for-11 record in the AFL [13].
The Braves also face a decision regarding their managerial position [16].
TL;DR
* Marcell Ozuna is predicted to sign with the New York Mets, potentially leaving a void in the Braves' offense [1]. * The Braves' pitching staff was plagued by injuries in 2025, but Chris Sale had several impactful starts [4, 8]. * Prospects like Luke Sinnard and Jim Jarvis are showing promise in the Arizona Fall League [13, 14]. * The Braves will need to address multiple roster spots and spending habits this offseason after missing the playoffs [5, 15].