The Atlanta Braves have had a disappointing season, and the trade deadline could be where they officially punt on the year. While reports suggest Ozzie Albies will not be traded this week, the Braves could change their mind.
According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the Braves could entertain trading Albies in the winter. He has spent his entire career with the Braves and has $7 million team options for the next two years.
“Even with Atlanta All-Star second baseman Ozzie Albies’ struggles this year, Atlanta plans to pick up his $7 million option this winter and will at least listen to trade offers for him,” wrote Nightengale. “Albies also has a $7 million club option in 2027.”
While Nightengale suggests the Braves could listen to offers in the winter, FanSided’s Christopher Kline thinks the team could consider moving him before the deadline hits, noting Albies may not be as safe as he believes this week.
“Maybe it’s bad business to trade him while his value is so low, but the opposite argument is equally valid,” wrote Kline. “Atlanta might want to cash in while there’s still the illusion of potential for Albies to return to All-Star form.”
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Albies is having a terrible season. He is slashing .219/.294/.323 on the season. However, his potential and club control could get a team to bite on him. He is a three-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger. If the team plans on listening to offers in the winter, they could be convinced to move him now if the right offer presents itself.
“The Braves can straight-up improve their production at second base with the right in-house promotion or a separate trade,” wrote Kline. “It won’t take much. The hope is that Albies’ output moves back in the right direction come 2026, but if it doesn’t, the Braves will have even more trouble trading him next July. If the right offer comes Anthopoulos’ way, he needs to take it seriously.”
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