The Atlanta Braves were extremely active in the waiver claim department in 2025. Injuries to multiple players forced them into hoping they could scoop someone up and find a diamond in the rough. Most of these claims proved why their former teams decided to move on from them. However, there were a few players who showed they may be worth keeping around for a little while longer.
With all of the unexpected injuries that can happen during the grind of a 162-game season, the Braves need all the help they can get. Let's take a look at three players who deserve another look in 2026.
Here are 3 Braves waiver claims that did enough to stick around for 2026
Joey Wentz
Wentz returned to the team that originally drafted him after having a rough first half of the season. While his 4.92 ERA would indicate it was all bad, there were plenty of encouraging outings to retain him for another season. The lefty may not be destined for a starting role, but he could be a great long-relief option in the bullpen.
Ha-Seong Kim
This feels like the most obvious waiver claim that deserves to stick around in 2026. He solves a massive need for the team, and he fits in well in the clubhouse culture. Hopefully, he exercises his player option or the Braves sign him to a multi-year contract to keep him around. There's a lot to like offensively, and he has given enough confidence in his shoulder being healthy defensively to keep around for a few years.
Jake Fraley
Fraley only appeared in nine games with the Braves before he landed on the IL. However, he looked pretty good when on the field. He had a .304 average over 24 plate appearances. Fraley had a great year with the Reds in 2024, and despite his down year, Atlanta should take a chance on him. He would be great bench depth in 2026.