Braves Face Injury Woes and Payroll Challenges as Offseason Progresses

The Atlanta Braves have had a relatively quiet offseason so far, with their only significant move being the trade of Jorge Soler to the Los Angeles Angels. This has led to speculation that the club is being cautious about its payroll, particularly as they risk surpassing the luxury tax threshold for a third consecutive year. Such a move would result in hefty tax penalties and the loss of ten spots in the first round of the 2026 draft.


Despite this slow start, Braves president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos has assured reporters, including David O’Brien of The Athletic, that the team is willing to exceed the luxury tax again this year to address their needs.


The Braves' initial offseason plans were disrupted by troubling medical updates on key players Ronald Acuna Jr. and Spencer Strider, as well as reliever Joe Jimenez. Both Acuna and Strider are not expected to be ready for Opening Day and could be sidelined until well into May. Jimenez, who underwent knee surgery, will likely miss most, if not all, of the 2025 season.


These injuries have forced the Braves to reconsider their financial strategies. According to O’Brien, the club would not have restructured the contracts of Reynaldo Lopez and Aaron Bummer, nor declined the club option of veteran catcher Travis d’Arnaud, if not for the added pressure to strengthen their outfield, rotation, and bullpen.


As the offseason progresses, the Braves will need to navigate these challenges carefully to maintain their competitive edge. With the willingness to surpass the luxury tax, they may still make significant moves to fill the gaps left by these injuries and continue to contend in the upcoming season.