The 2025 MLB Winter Meetings have concluded, and there were some big splashes made. However, the Atlanta Braves weren't a part of any of these major moves. Atlanta did make a surprise addition on the last day of the meetings when they signed outfielder Mike Yastrzemski.
This helped give the Braves some outfield flexibility, but there is still work to do. Atlanta still needs to try to find a shortstop solution and improve their pitching staff. While the team wasn't involved in any massive deals during the meetings, they were included in a few rumors and those rumors should have fans excited for what's left to come this offseason.
3 Braves rumors from the 2025 Winter Meetings that should have fans excited
Atlanta has reportedly been focused solely on pitching, according to ESPN's Buster Olney. Olney reported this after there was mention of Atlanta considering a trade for Corey Seager. That seems very doubtful with how much work is left to do.
Kyle Finnegan
Pitching should be the main focus for Atlanta's front office, as the bullpen is pretty bare at the moment. One rumor from Ken Rosenthal had the organization linked to reliever Kyle Finnegan. The right-hander didn't end up landing with the Braves since it was announced during the meetings that he signed a two-year, $19 million contract to return to Detroit.
While it stinks that this rumor didn't end up coming to fruition, it should signal to fans that AA is serious about spending on high-leverage relievers. With the market being as pricey as it is, they'll need to pay up. The uncertainty surrounding Joe Jimenez's health is obviously a contributing factor as well.
Robert Suarez
Speaking of high-leverage relievers, Atlanta was also rumored to be considering Suarez. The former Padres closer has been lights out over the last two years. He would be a welcome addition to the backend of the bullpen. The only problem here is that a few other teams are interested in him, too. MLB insider Mark Feinsand reported the Braves, Blue Jays, and Mets are believed to be the "most aggressive suitors" for Suarez's services. Atlanta desperately needs another top-tier arm to pair with Raisel Iglesias, so hopefully this works out in favor of the Braves.
Willi Castro
There was one offensive rumor to take a look at, and that is utilityman Willi Castro. It was rumored that the Braves, along with the Pirates and Rockies, had interest in adding the free agent. Castro had an underwhelming season in 2025, but he would provide Atlanta with some flexibility on their bench. He is projected to sign a two-year, $14 million contract which isn't nothing, but is also hardly a salary that would break the bank. Adding him would likely confirm that the Braves plan on using Mauricio Dubon as their main shortstop. Castro could then serve as their utility man for the season and serve as backup should Ozzie Albies injure himself at any point.