GM Alex Anthopoulos confirmed the move for the team’s longest-tenured player, a decision made easy by a $4M buyout that made the net cost only $3M.
ATLANTA — The Atlanta Braves have made their first major roster decision of the offseason. The team will be picking up the 2026 club option on long-time second baseman Ozzie Albies’ contract, according to statements made by President of Baseball Operations Alex Anthopoulos during a radio interview earlier today.
The decision, while expected, secures the return of the team’s longest-tenured player.
Albies, who debuted in 2017, had a $7 million club option for the 2026 season. The contract included a $4 million buyout, meaning the decision to bring him back carried an additional monetary commitment of only $3 million—a bargain for a player of his caliber.
The 2025 season was an up-and-down campaign for the second baseman. Coming off an injury-shortened 2024, Albies struggled through the first half of 2025 before surging with a hot streak in July. His season was unfortunately cut short in late September when he suffered a fracture in his hand.
If Albies is healthy for the 2026 opener, he is set to make franchise history. He would set the Braves record for most Opening Day starts by a second baseman, breaking the tie he currently holds with long-time Braves player and coach, Glenn Hubbard.
Looking further ahead, the Braves also hold another $7 million club option on Albies for the 2027 season, which would be just his age-30 campaign.
Roster Moves Underway
Albies’ option was not the only news of the day. Earlier, the team announced it had released pitcher Nathan Wiles to clear a 40-man roster spot.
Wiles, who was acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays late in Spring Training, made his major league debut with Atlanta last season. He made one appearance, allowing three runs.
The move is the first of several expected as the Braves have to clear 40-man roster spots in advance of activating players off the 60-day Injured List on Thursday.
