7 Braves Facing Uncertain Futures Heading Into 2022

Braves with Uncertain Futures — Will Smith

Will Smith enters the final guaranteed year of his contract in 2022. There is a $13 million team option in 2023 with a $1 million buyout.

Like Dansby, Will Smith is somewhat of a divisive player among the fanbase. Outside of 2020, which was just a weird year for Smith, the numbers are actually really good.

His K%, chase rate, and Whiff% remain among the best in baseball. However, the increase of HardHit% and Avg Exit Velocity is somewhat concerning and not near the elite levels he had back in 2018.

He doesn’t have the typical stuff of a closer, but when that slider is biting, it’s one devastating pitch.

Still, it’s difficult for me to see the Braves picking up that $13 million option. Especially when they could have A.J. Minter, Tyler Matzek, or perhaps even Kirby Yates ready to step into the closer’s role in 2023.

If Smith wanted to stay at home in Atlanta, I think the Braves would be on board for bringing him back on a much smaller contract to be the 7th or 8th inning guy.

But if Smith wants another job as a closer — and get closer money — then this is probably his last season with the Braves.