The Atlanta Braves could be looking to make a big splash this offseason.
After falling short to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLDS, the Braves may be aggressive in their pursuit of roster upgrades.
Atlanta’s lineup could have an opening at the DH spot in 2027, especially if things go south with Ronald Acuna Jr.
“Speculation is already mounting regarding Ronald Acuña Jr.’s future, and the Braves could realistically make Drake Baldwin the full-time starting catcher again,” FanSided’s Jake Elman wrote.
Elman tabbed the Braves as one of the top landing spots for a New York Yankees slugger who is 44 home runs away from 500 for his career.
“What that’d mean for Acuña’s spot in right field is another conversation entirely, but the Baldwin move would open the DH slot for [Giancarlo] Stanton.
“Stanton knows the Braves well from his Marlins days, and his 25 homers off Atlanta pitching are his fourth-most against any team. Now sounds like a perfect time for an NL East reunion, and even more so if the Phillies and Mets make significant roster changes this winter,” Elman wrote.
Obviously, there are injury concerns with Stanton. He was limited to regular season games and two postseason at-bats due to three separate calf strains.
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Stanton turns 37 in less than a month and has one year remaining (2028 team option) on the 13-year contract he signed with the Miami Marlins. The contract includes a no-trade clause.
At his age, it’s hard to imagine Stanton playing over 100 games again in his career. Sure, he might be able to hit 15-20 homers and drive in 40-50 runs if he goes on a hot streak.
Still, the Braves already know the risk when it comes to inserting Stanton in the field and when he runs the bases. A healthy year is far from a guarantee.
