(ATLANTA) — The Atlanta Braves have delivered a massive shot of adrenaline to their fanbase, officially picking up the $7 million club option on three-time All-Star second baseman Ozzie Albies for the 2026 season.
The move, executed days ago ahead of the non-tender deadline, was widely celebrated not because of its surprising nature, but because it confirms the front office’s commitment to retaining the “heartbeat” of the club at a remarkably team-friendly price—a factor that could dramatically reshape Atlanta’s financial flexibility and entire future.
A Bargain That Invites Change
Ozzie Albies, who is under contract control through 2027 (via another $$$7$ million option), remains one of the greatest bargains in Major League Baseball. While his 2025 season saw an alarming dip in offensive production (.240 AVG) due in part to a fractured hand suffered late in the year, the decision to exercise the option was seen as inevitable.
The Cost: The $$$7$ million option came with a $$$4$ million buyout. This means the Braves are only committing an additional $3 million beyond the buyout to retain a two-time 30-homer/100-RBI threat.
The Consistency: Despite the recent struggles, Albies remains one of the most durable and consistent second basemen in the league, giving the Braves stability in the middle infield—a luxury they desperately need as the shortstop position remains uncertain following Ha-Seong Kim’s opt-out.
Albies is the Anchor
For General Manager Alex Anthopoulos (AA), the quick decision on Albies allows him to pivot his focus entirely to the team’s massive needs at shortstop and Designated Hitter (DH).
“With his consistency and leadership, Albies remains the heartbeat of Atlanta,” said one Braves insider. “Locking him up for 7$ million for two more years frees up the funds and the mental space for AA to be extremely aggressive on the open market, likely pursuing a huge fish like Bo Bichette or a top DH.”
The commitment to Albies guarantees the Braves an organizational cornerstone and allows the team to prioritize spending elsewhere, turning an obvious contractual decision into one that holds the key to the entire offseason strategy.
