ATLANTA, GA — The Atlanta Braves are gearing up for what is expected to be a pivotal and busy offseason following a disappointing 76-86 campaign, their first time missing the playoffs in seven years. The new era officially began with the hiring of longtime bench coach Walt Weiss as manager on Monday, November 3, 2025.
ESPN’s Jeff Passan noted the challenge Weiss inherits: “Weiss, 61, managed the Colorado Rockies from 2013 to 2016, going 283-365 and never finishing higher than third place. He inherits a talented Braves team that finished 76-86 and was ravaged by injuries.”
The focus of General Manager Alex Anthopoulos now immediately turns to free agency, where one marquee name is already generating significant buzz as a potential target: Cody Bellinger.
Bellinger Opts Out, Enters Lucrative Market
Former MVP Cody Bellinger recently opted out of his contract with the New York Yankees, as confirmed by MLB Network insider Jon Heyman. Bellinger, who will be 30 at the start of the 2026 season, is poised for a massive contract.
| Cody Bellinger (2025 Regular Season – NYY) | Statistic | Value |
| WAR | Wins Above Replacement | 5.1 |
| HR | Home Runs | 29 |
| RBI | Runs Batted In | 98 |
| AVG / OPS | Batting Avg / OPS | .272 / .813 |
| SB | Stolen Bases | 13 |
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Predicted Contract: Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter predicted Bellinger’s market could land around 5 years, $140 million, equating to a $28 million Average Annual Value (AAV).
Why Bellinger Fits the Braves’ Needs
Bellinger’s profile addresses several of Atlanta’s most pressing offseason priorities, particularly in the offense and outfield depth:
- Defensive Versatility: Bellinger’s ability to play all three outfield spots, and even first base, is a major asset. This versatility provides Weiss with numerous tactical options.
- Acuña Workload Management: Signing Bellinger would allow the Braves to manage the workload of superstar Ronald Acuña Jr. more effectively. Acuña could be rested more often or utilized as the Designated Hitter (DH) on non-rest days, mitigating injury risk after a challenging 2025 season.
- Outfield Depth: His presence provides insurance for other outfielders. If Michael Harris II experiences another slump, Bellinger can seamlessly step into center field.
- Left-Handed Power: Bellinger’s left-handed bat and power (29 HR in 2025) would bring balance and length to a lineup that needs to bounce back offensively.
While ATL Sports Talk’s Chase Irle noted the team’s historical hesitation with Bellinger and his streaky past, his exceptional 2025 performance (5.1 WAR, 29 HR) makes him an ideal, albeit expensive, solution for a team desperate to return to championship contention.
The Braves are clearly focused on upgrading their position players, but their other major reported priorities include bolstering the starting rotation and overhauling the bullpen. Considering the high price tag on Bellinger, what is the most crucial position the Braves should spend big money on this offseason: Outfield (Bellinger), Shortstop (Ha-Seong Kim/other), or Starting Pitching?
