The Atlanta Braves set a major precedent years ago by rewarding young talent after early success. Unfortunately, the early benefits reaped by the team are fading as some of these contracts have soured.
Every season is simply hoping that key players can remain healthy and contribute. That has been a real strain with a few of these contracts due to injury and poor off-field decisions. Let's take a quick look at the five worst contracts that will remain on the books beyond 2026.
Here are the worst contracts that will still be on the Braves' books when the season ends
Jurickson Profar
Profar has ruined any chances of Braves fans supporting him again. His second-straight PED ban was a massive gutpunch for his teammates as well. Atlanta wasn't on the hook for his salary this season, which is why some were shocked the Braves didn't add more at the trade deadline. However, they have a big decision to make ahead of the 2027 season. Profar would be owed $15 million should he stick around.
Spencer Strider
Strider had so much promise and looked like the ace fans had waited for. Unfortunately, injuries have plagued him since signing his six-year, $75 million contract in 2022. His stuff hasn't been the same since his UCL brace procedure last season, and he is dealing with yet more elbow concerns. It's tough to see him owed $22 million over the next two years. Strider also has a $22 million club option in 2029 with a $5 million buyout.
Austin Riley
Riley signed the largest deal in franchise history in 2022, a 10-year $212 million contract. It seemed like a great deal at the time as the righty was playing at an incredible pace. Unfortunately, that success has faded a bit over the last two years. He is still owed $22 million per season through 2032, with a $22 million club option for 2033 with no buyout.
Fortunately, he is starting to look better at the plate over his last seven games with a .304 average, two homers, and five RBI. The Braves really need him to get back to being one of the most dangerous hitters in the lineup.
Sean Murphy
Murphy has had a similar experience to Strider. He started out great with the team, but persistent injuries and underperformance have made his contract a tough pill to swallow. He has two years left valued at $15 million, and a $15 million club option in 2029. He is great at calling games behind the plate, but his offense really has to pick up so that this doesn't become one of the worst contracts during Alex Anthopoulos' tenure.
Mike Yastrzemski
Yaz looked good early on, but he has struggled mightily over the last couple of months. The Braves may have to consider whether he will remain with the team beyond this season. There are so many talented outfield prospects that could fill this role and not require the $10 million owed to Yaz in 2027. The sneaky part with his contract is the $7 million club option in 2029 with a $4 million buyout. Expect the team to move on from him at least after next season.
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