The Atlanta Braves made a few signings this offseason that could help impact the team. However, one of those signings is already trying to make their case as one of the best. Mike Yastrzemski wasn't someone fans (or anyone) probably expected Atlanta to sign. However, he does provide some quality depth for the outfield, and he was fairly affordable on a two-year, $23 million contract.
Initially, Yaz was going to serve as a platoon option when the Braves needed to give their regulars a day off. However, with the injury to Sean Murphy, he will get a good amount of playing time early on so that Jurickson Profar can DH in the meantime. Thankfully, Atlanta's new outfielder didn't waste anytime showing the Braves what he brings to the table. He homered in his first plate appearance of the spring and hasn't slowed down yet.
Mike Yastrzemski is showing out in Braves spring training and that could be a great sign for their 2026 ambitions
That moment was very special for Yaz, despite growing up in a Red Sox family. His dad played in the Braves organization at one point, and he considered Atlanta his National League team. Yaz also grew up idolizing Andruw Jones and Chipper Jones. It's clear that putting on the uniform of a team he loves, along with hard work, provided some confidence.
Yastrzemski told Braves insider Mark Bowman, “It's a special thing to put this uniform on in general, but to also homer, it's obviously even better,” He continued, “I’m just looking forward to continuing to mesh with these guys and continuing to have fun.”
Mike Yastrzemski goes YARD 💪 pic.twitter.com/fWUvft9RSV
— MLB (@MLB) February 27, 2026
So far, Yaz is 6-for-10 with one double, three homers, five RBI, three walks, and two strikeouts. That's an incredible first impression to make on the fan base. Hopefully, he's able to carry this into the regular season. Yaz recognizes this as he stated, "We’ve just got to make sure to pace it out, make sure we're ready for Opening Day. I’m just trying to be on time. That's it.”
This could become one of those diamond-in-the-rough signings that Alex Anthopoulos always seems to find. Yaz having a connection to the Braves for his entire life is a great story, but we hope he's able to sustain this great performance all season long.