After a disappointing 2025 season marked by injuries and inconsistency, the Atlanta Braves missed the playoffs for the first time in several years, highlighting clear roster deficiencies. With a new manager in place and a core group of players returning, the Braves’ front office, led by Alex Anthopoulos, will likely focus on targeted additions to address key needs at shortstop, designated hitter, starting rotation depth, and the bullpen. The top-tier free agent market features several intriguing options that could help Atlanta return to championship contention in 2026.
Free Agency Fixes: Braves’ 2026 Resurgence Starts with These Key Targets
Shortstop: Filling the Void
Shortstop is arguably the Braves’ most glaring need, especially after Ha-Seong Kim opted out of his contract to test the market. While the Braves are interested in re-signing Kim, the shallow shortstop class means he will likely command a competitive multi-year deal. Kim is the most logical and likely option. He provided solid defense and a decent bat during his time in Atlanta after being claimed off waivers in Aug. 2025. Retaining him would provide much-needed stability at a crucial defensive position.
If the Braves are arguably going to have to overpay for a shortstop regardless, why not go all in on Bo Bichette? A bat-first shortstop, Bichette is an intriguing power hitter coming off a strong offensive year with the Toronto Blue Jays. While his defense is below average, he could be an option if the Braves are willing to prioritize offense. There were even rumors of Atlanta possibly being interested in him playing second base instead, but with the team deciding to bring Ozzie Albies back, that seems far-fetched.
Designated Hitter/Outfield: Adding Versatility and Power
With Marcell Ozuna likely departing in free agency, the Braves need to add an impact bat, ideally one with defensive flexibility to support Ronald Acuña Jr. and provide depth in the outfield. Cody Bellinger is a premier target due to his left-handed power, defensive versatility across the outfield and at first base, and a strong rebound 2025 season. He fits the mold of a core position player and could ease the burden of Acuña Jr.
A budget-friendly option could be Lane Thomas, who offers flexibility across all three outfield positions and showed solid power production in previous seasons, making him a useful depth additon. Thomas struggled significantly in 2025 while dealing with injuries for the majority of the season, but he could be a great bargain when healthy.
Pitching: Reinforcing the Rotation and Bullpen
Injuries exposed a lack of depth in the Braves’ pitching staff in 2025, making starting and relief pitching a high priority. Ranger Suárez would add some starting pitching depth. A durable southpaw with a strong track record and excellent postseason numbers, Suárez could be a high-impact mid-rotation arm without commanding the massive contract of top-tier aces like Framber Valdez or Dylan Cease. Michael King and Zac Gallen could also be attractive mid-tier options, with Gallen coming off a down year that might make him amenable to a shorter, “prove-it” deal, fitting the Braves’ typical strategy for veteran arms.
For the bullpen, re-signing Raisel Iglesias is a real possibility for Atlanta, as Iglesias was lights out in the second half of 2025. If Iglesias’s market value exceeds the Braves’ comfort zone, elite closers like Robert Suarez and Edwin Diaz are available as potential replacements, though they will be even more expensive. This makes Iglesias the most likely of the three options.
The Braves need a blend of high-impact talent and reliable depth to navigate the long season. By making shrewd moves at these key positions, Atlanta can position itself for a strong bounce-back season in 2026.
Main Image: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
