With the 2026-2027 MLB offseason officially underway, thanks to a quick World Series victory by the Brewers, the Braves have already made key decisions on two of their cornerstone players, including exercising their very team friendly option on second baseman Ozzie Albies.
This decision was a no-brainer for Atlanta, as Albies' option was only worth $7 million. However, even if this move seemingly locks Albies in at second base for 2027, it shouldn't stop the Braves from looking to add another one.
Braves should still consider adding another second baseman, even after keeping Ozzie Albies
Albies has been penned into second base for the Braves ever since he was first called up in August 2017. Over the last 10 seasons, it's been hard to imagine any other player taking over the reins at second, at least as long as Albies is healthy.
However, over the last three years, Albies has failed to exceed the 1.5 fWAR mark in a season. While one of those seasons was injury marred, he played full seasons in 2025 and 2026, and has been a below-average hitter and fielder.
This past season, Albies had a hot start to the year that propelled him to an All-Star appearance, but overall, Albies had the worst year of his career by xwOBA and wRC+, and had the second-worst wOBA of his career.
While exercising his team-friendly option makes plenty of sense, the Braves still should consider adding a second baseman, or at least someone who has second base experience, if Albies's offense continues to decline, and could succeed him in 2028 and beyond.
This season, Luis Arraez, Gleyber Torres, and Jazz Chisholm Jr are all free agents, with all three potentially being signable for cheap. Arraez, Torres, and Chisholm and are likely looking for a team that will allow them to play second base full-time in 2026, but if any are willing to split time to go around the infield (or in Chisholm's case, the outfield), they could be options if the price is right.
Another option the Braves should at least do their due diligence on is Marlins second baseman Xavier Edwards. There were reports that the Marlins were willing to listen to offers. Edwards had a 108 OPS+ this year, and is under team control for three more seasons. Edwards would be an interesting option as well, as he could also fill in at shortstop for 2027, and then slide back over to second base for 2028.
Although it's not likely that the Braves displace Ozzie Albies to the bench, they should not shut down second base options if it means they can improve not only for 2027, but for 2028 and beyond.
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