Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos Hints at Payroll Increase

Alex Anthopoulos, Atlanta Braves GM, held an end-of-season press conference that provided some intriguing hints about the team's future. The biggest takeaway? The Braves are set to see a rising payroll, but that doesn't necessarily mean they'll dive headfirst into the free-agent market.

Anthopoulos acknowledged that while payroll has steadily increased during his tenure, the organization already has substantial internal financial commitments, meaning free agency may not be the primary path for upgrades.

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“I know it’s not going to go down, I expect it to rise, but to what level, we’ll spend the offseason going through that. I view it opening day to opening day, because in-season things come up. … Is it a bottomless pit? Is it unlimited? Of course not. But every year we’ve set a new Braves high from a payroll standpoint. … We will be going up, I just can’t give you the amount.”

- Alex Anthopoulos

Anthopoulos remarked that payroll has grown each year he's been in charge, and 2025 won't be an exception. However, he emphasized that there's a limit: "Is it a bottomless pit? Is it unlimited? Of course not." The GM's cautious optimism suggests there will be more spending, but he stopped short of specifying an exact figure.

While the Braves' player salaries were pegged at $223 million for 2024, their luxury tax figure sat much higher at $279 million due to the nature of backloaded contracts. Anthopoulos confirmed that despite this, the team managed to stay under the $277 million luxury tax penalty threshold.

As the Braves prepare for the 2025 season, they seem ready to exceed the luxury tax threshold for the third consecutive year. This could lead to harsher penalties, with a 50% tax rate on the first $20 million over the $241 million base threshold. Plus, escalating even further if they surpass $281 million. Atlanta has already committed around $180 million in player salaries, with several club options expected to add another $31.25 million, placing them close to their previous Opening Day payroll before even considering any external acquisitions.

While Anthopoulos could try to free up some payroll through trades, particularly with Jorge Soler, who's due $13 million annually over the next two seasons, the team faces a few critical departures. Max Fried and A.J. Minter could leave in free agency, and veteran Charlie Morton might decide to retire. Though Spencer Strider's return from injury will help shore up the rotation, questions remain about the depth behind key starters like Chris Sale and Reynaldo López.

There's speculation about potential upgrades at shortstop, with the Braves being floated as a possible landing spot for Willy Adames. The Braves' front office has historically leaned toward trades and contract extensions rather than big-ticket free-agent signings. Given Anthopoulos' history of pulling off surprise trades, it wouldn't be a shock to see Atlanta make some unexpected moves in the offseason.

One area where stability is expected is the coaching staff. Manager Brian Snitker is under contract through the 2025 season and confirmed that he intends to continue in his role. Anthopoulos echoed this sentiment, saying he expects the entire coaching staff to remain intact, ensuring that the leadership guiding the Braves remains consistent heading into next year.

The offseason promises to be interesting for the Braves. With payroll increases, critical player decisions, and the potential for another deep playoff run, the team's front office has a lot on its plate. Fans can look forward to seeing how Anthopoulos and his staff navigate these challenges to keep Atlanta competitive at the highest level.