There's no denying the pedigree of the Atlanta Braves organization as things currently stand. They've been one of the most feared teams in the National League since winning the World Series in 2021 and have been the class of the NL East going back to 2018.
That high standing is due in no small part to the front office setting the team up for success by stockpiling depth and locking up young talent to deals early on so they can focus on playing and not their standing with the team. ESPN's Kiley McDaniel wrote a piece earlier this year that touches on how Atlanta built a model franchise.
Atlanta Braves dynasty is in danger of collapse after 2025 season
However, this dynasty created is teetering on the brink of collapse once the 2025 season concludes. Yes, this sounds overly dramatic but it isn't meant to. Multiple players will reach free agency and a few more have club options that could be denied. Atlanta's window for winning another championship is shrinking rapidly.
Winning the World Series in 2025 may be their best opportunity but only if the worst happens after the season ends. Marcell Ozuna will reach free agency and after how well he has performed for the Braves since 2023, he will be primed for a multi-year contract.
Braves closer Raisel Iglesias is entering the final year of his four-year $58 million contract. Iglesias has been one of the best closers in baseball and had the best season of his career in 2024. Iggy will turn 36 after the 2025 season and the Braves could move on from him.
Raisel Iglesias, 3Ks in the 9th. pic.twitter.com/AseouUe9KX
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) September 7, 2024
Those are the only two true free agents for 2026 but four more players have club options after the 2025 season concludes. Ozzie Albies, Pierce Johnson, Chris Sale, Orlando Arica, and David Fletcher all have options for 2026.
Fletcher is the easiest call for not having his option picked up as he's been relegated to Double-A since the Ohtani allegations surfaced. He's been pitching in Atlanta's minor league system after developing a knuckleball.
Sale, Albies, Johnson, and Arcia could all have cases for returning. Sale could have another incredible season on the mound and make it the easiest decision for the Braves. However, they could give Sale one last chance at free agency if things go sideways.
Albies is a fan-favorite and clubhouse leader so there's plenty of value in returning him to Atlanta. However, his performance has dwindled in recent years and injuries have kept him off the field. Arcia hasn't been known for his offensive production but he's dependable defensively and that's kept him around. It's hard to believe the Braves won't try to upgrade that position in the near future.
The Braves having potential exits at multiple positions could place them in a bind that would be hard to climb out of. This is especially difficult when you consider Atlanta's lack of prospect depth. The organization may need to adjust its draft strategy to help prepare for this potential scenario.