ATLANTA, GA—While the Braves have already been active this winter—re-signing Raisel Iglesias and landing Ha-Seong Kim—the league is buzzing over a trade scenario that would dwarf those moves combined. In a prediction that has shaken up front-office chatter, multiple analysts, including those from Sporting News and Fansided, are projecting the Braves as a top landing spot for Texas Rangers superstar Corey Seager.1
Seager, who is entering the fifth year of a massive 10-year, $325 million contract, is a two-time World Series MVP and arguably the most dangerous left-handed bat in the American League.2 The idea of him moving to Atlanta isn’t just about talent; it’s about a “franchise-defining swing” to solve the Braves’ most persistent weakness.
THE “QUIET FUEL” BEHIND THE RUMOR
What’s fueling this “shaking up” of chatter? It’s the realization that the Texas Rangers are reportedly listening to offers as they look to recalibrate their payroll following a middling 81–81 season.
The Shortstop Gap: In 2025, Braves shortstops combined for a meager 1.1 fWAR.3 Seager, even in an injury-shortened 102-game season, produced a 6.1 WAR.4+1
The “Mauricio Dubón” Factor: While the Braves recently acquired Gold Glover Mauricio Dubón, he is viewed by many as a high-end utility weapon rather than a permanent solution.5 Acquiring Seager would move the Braves from “surviving” at shortstop to “dominating” it.
The Front Office Promotion: Many believe the recent promotions of Michael Schwartze and Adam Sonabend to Assistant GM roles signal that Alex Anthopoulos is preparing the data and logistical infrastructure for a “big game” acquisition.
BY THE NUMBERS: THE SEAGER IMPACT
The Seager Profile
The 2025 Reality
The Truist Park Projection
Contract Remaining
6 Years / $186 Million
Atlanta absorbs roughly $31M AAV.
2025 Production
.271 AVG / 21 HR / 50 RBI
Projections see 35+ HR in the NL East.
Postseason Resume
2-Time World Series MVP
The ultimate “October Insurance” for Acuña/Olson.
The Obstacle
Full No-Trade Clause
Requires Seager’s direct approval to move to ATL.
THE BLOCKBUSTER PRICE TAG
This isn’t just about money; it’s about the “risky move” of depleting the farm system. To land a $325M star, the Braves would likely have to part with a package centered on top pitching prospects like Hurston Waldrep or Dylan Dodd, and potentially a major-league piece.
“It’s the least ‘Alex Anthopoulos’ move on paper because of the cost,” one rival executive noted. “But the Braves are in a ‘win-now’ window that won’t stay open forever. If you can put Corey Seager in that lineup, you aren’t just a playoff team—you’re the favorite for the title.”
THE VERDICT: BOLD SWING OR SMOKESCREEN?
The “jaw-dropping” nature of this rumor comes from the sheer scale of the contract. However, as the Rangers look to shed long-term salary and the Braves look for a final piece to reclaim the NL throne from the Dodgers, the “shaking up” of the trade market feels more real than ever.