Trading Young Talent or $65M Vet: Braves' Dilemma

The Atlanta Braves are facing some difficult choices this offseason. Due to injury battles throughout 2024, the Braves have accumulated a surprising number of outfielders. While a blessing during the season, the team's depth now forces management into tough decisions, particularly regarding who will stick around for 2025.

This crowd of outfielders includes stars like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Michael Harris II, along with Ramón Laureano, Jorge Soler, and Jarred Kelenic. Many of them are either under contract or nearing arbitration. Yet, some changes are almost inevitable.

One name that stands out is Marcell Ozuna, who has been a force at the plate but primarily served as the Braves' designated hitter in 2024. Ozuna's contract includes a club option for 2025 at $16 million, and he's been one of the best hitters in the league over the last two seasons.

The Braves may explore trading him to free up space for younger talent or bolster other areas of the roster. Some believe that trading Ozuna might not be the best move due to his recent offensive success and the relatively affordable price tag of that option.

Jarred Kelenic and Marcell Ozuna have there names being thrown around as Braves trade rumors heat up.Photo byMLB.com

That brings us to another intriguing player, Jarred Kelenic. Kelenic was acquired mid-season and has flashed potential. Unfortunately, he hasn't consistently lived up to his hype though. He had a brief hot streak at the plate but has otherwise struggled, a trend familiar to the Mariners and the Mets, two organizations that had high hopes for him before landing in Atlanta.

FanSided's John Buhler even compared Kelenic's inconsistency to Dr. John Dorian from Scrubs, someone full of potential yet often lost in their own thoughts. Buhler suggests that Kelenic might be the more logical trade piece rather than Ozuna, especially since Kelenic will be entering his final arbitration year in 2025 and could still command attention from other teams looking for upside.

The question is, what's the best path forward for Atlanta? Trading Kelenic would clear up some outfield congestion, and he's projected to make only a little over $2 million, a fraction of what Ozuna costs.

However, at just 25 years old, Kelenic still has the potential to break through if he can find consistency at the plate. This means the Braves might not want to give up on him just yet. On the other hand, Ozuna is a proven veteran bat. Plus, he's more expensive and comes with the risk of aging and potential decline.

It all hinges on how much the Braves are willing to gamble. They could bet on the younger Kelenic to fulfill his promise. Or, they could ride the wave with Ozuna who's been reliable offensively but is nearing the back end of his prime. No matter which way the front office goes, handling Ozuna's club option will be a critical first domino, signaling what the team values most as they aim for another run at a championship.