Braves predicted to cut ties with ex-Yankees slugger this winter

The Atlanta Braves will need to make some changes if they want to get back to contention in 2025.

Atlanta doesn't need to make any massive changes or investments -- aside from hopefully retaining Max Fried. The Braves have a great base and should be able to contend with better health. But it also could make sense to bring in a few players. There also could be some players on the edges who decide to leave this winter.

One player who was predicted to leave the Braves this winter is utility man Gio Urshela, according to FanSided's Zachary Rotman.

"Austin Riley's season-ending injury left a gaping hole at third base and forced Atlanta to sign the best player they could find, Gio Urshela, who was released by the Detroit Tigers," Rotman said. "Urshela struggled mightily in Detroit, but just as virtually every player that Atlanta picked up, stepped up his game when he put on a Braves uniform. He slashed .265/.287/.424 with four home runs and 15 RBI as Atlanta's regular third baseman.

"He didn't provide much power and only drew four walks in 136 plate appearances, but Urshela provided a steady presence at the bottom of the order and was better than anyone could've realistically expected based on his lack of production in Detroit. The Braves would likely be interested in a reunion with Urshela based on how he played in Atlanta, but with Riley returning, it makes little sense for Urshela to consider re-signing. He should get more money and playing time elsewhere."

Urshela was very steady in his short stint with the Braves but could get a bigger deal elsewhere. He had the most success of his career as a member of the New York Yankees from 2019 through 2021. There certainly will be plenty of teams interested in him.

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