Some of the predictions include another reunion, a blockbuster trade and simply sticking with somebody they have.
The MLB offseason is still in its early stages, allowing the Atlanta Braves plenty of time to make important decisions. These selections will be critical to the success of the forthcoming 2025 season.
Now all we can do is forecast what the Braves will do, so we will.
Without further ado, here are three bold offseason projections for the Atlanta Braves.
Braves acquire Cubs shortstop Nico HoernerÂ
So they’re not signing Willy Adames? Not in this prediction. With so many teams fighting for his services, it appears like the Braves will be outbid.
While they have already traded for Nick Allen, he will not be an everyday option. The Braves might still return to the trade market to address their offensive issues at the position. While we’ve previously addressed Bo Bichette, we believe that won’t happen again.
As a result, we expect the Braves to target Cubs shortstop Nico Hoerner. He has previously been mentioned as a potential trade candidate for the Atlanta Braves. ESPN’s Jeff Passan recently wrote that he is a top Cubs trade possibility.
“The Cubs do not have to deal the 27-year-old this winter, but with Matt Shaw ready for the big leagues, they might utilize Hoerner to acquire a starting pitcher. Hoerner’s ability to play shortstop also appeals to teams looking for middle-infield help.
While it may not appear so, with Fried and Morton both free agents, the Braves had the pitching alternatives to complete this transaction. The prospect pool is rich for arms, and Ian Anderson’s greatest opportunity at playing time may be elsewhere.
Michael Soroka returns…on a Minor League deal
Soroka was once a young and promising pitcher for the Braves. In his first full season, Soroka was an all-star, placed second behind Pete Alonso in Rookie of the Year voting, and got Cy Young votes.
Since then, he has battled injuries and had an insipid performance in 2024, along with the rest of the Chicago White Sox – if I may understate their season in that manner.
However, the Braves need bullpen options. Raisel Iglesias could be out of action for the rest of 2025, and AJ Minter could leave in free agency. The 27-year-old former Brave is currently on the market. He’s unlikely to have teams bidding for his services, but he’s worth a minor league contract and a spring training invite to earn his way onto a big-league roster next season.
The Braves enjoy reviving careers and reuniting former players. There’s no guarantee Soroka will end up in the bullpen, but the Braves believe it’s worth a chance.
Braves tender Ramón LaureanoÂ
Due to the uncertainties, this appears to be a bold prediction. However, Laureano was an excellent addition to the Braves’ roster for the 2024 season. at 67 games at Atlanta, Laureano hit.296/.327/.505, with 10 home runs and 29 RBIs. He averaged 24 home runs and 70 RBIs over 162 games.
That sounds like an excellent out-of-the-box choice. Jarred Kelenic is a failed experiment at this time, and Laureano outperformed him when it counted the most last season.
A comparable alternative would most certainly cost more on the free-agent market. They will need someone to cover right field as Ronald Acuña Jr. recovers early in the season.
It makes more than enough sense for the Braves to make the move.
