Atlanta Braves Report: Starting Pitching, Marcell Ozuna and More

The Atlanta Braves are at a pivotal point in the 2025 offseason. They’re working the market hard to shore up a starting rotation battered by injuries, while also weighing big decisions in the outfield.

With Merrill Kelly off the board and marquee bats like Marcell Ozuna and Luis Robert drawing interest, Atlanta’s front office seems set on making at least one big move before Opening Day.

Braves Offseason Focus: Pitching First, But Not Only

The Braves have been one of the most active clubs in Major League Baseball this winter. Still, their biggest questions hang in the air.

Rebuilding a rotation battered by injuries over the last two seasons has become the primary concern. The team finds itself thin on reliable, front-line arms, and that’s a tough spot for a contender.

This urgency shapes how the Braves approach free agency and the trade market. At the same time, they’re looking at possible changes in the outfield mix.

Missing Out on Merrill Kelly Shifts the Plan

For weeks, Merrill Kelly looked like a natural fit in Atlanta. He’s a proven veteran who could have stabilized the middle of the rotation, checking almost every box the Braves needed.

But Kelly chose stability, sticking with the Arizona Diamondbacks on a two-year deal. That decision tightens an already competitive market for dependable starters.

With one of the top realistic targets gone, the Braves now have two choices:

  • Pay up for another established free agent arm
  • Get creative with trades involving prospects or controllable big leaguers
  • The need for a durable starter hasn’t changed. The path to getting one just got trickier.

    Injuries Forcing Aggressive Rotation Reinforcements

    Atlanta’s front office feels the pressure from the sheer volume of injuries that have hammered their pitching staff over the last two years. Even a strong organization can only absorb so many hits before depth turns into a liability.

    That’s why the Braves have become one of the most closely watched teams as they hunt for answers.

    Why a Reliable Arm Is Non-Negotiable

    Atlanta doesn’t just need another arm—they need a starter they can trust every fifth day to log quality innings. Relying only on internal options after so many injuries feels like a gamble that doesn’t fit a club with real postseason hopes.

    The Braves are expected to stay in the mix for:

  • Mid-rotation veterans with proven durability
  • Trade targets from pitching-rich teams looking to retool
  • Stability is the priority here, even if the new addition isn’t an ace.

    Outfield Picture: Marcell Ozuna and Luis Robert on the Radar

    Starting pitching gets the headlines, but the Braves are also weighing their outfield construction. They know run prevention and run production need to evolve together if they want to stay on top.

    That’s where Marcell Ozuna and Luis Robert come in.

    Marcell Ozuna Under Review in Free Agency

    The Braves are reportedly looking at free agent Marcell Ozuna as part of their broader offseason plans. Ozuna, known for his bat, could lengthen the lineup and bring some much-needed power to the middle order.

    Adding a hitter like him would show Atlanta isn’t just focused on pitching—they’re also willing to reinforce the offense. The real question is how Ozuna would fit with the current roster and defensive needs.

    Luis Robert: A High-Impact Trade Target

    On the trade side, Luis Robert is one of the most intriguing names floating around the National League rumor mill. He’s on the block, and the Braves look like a logical suitor given their needs and ambitions.

    Landing Robert would instantly reshape Atlanta’s outfield. His mix of power, athleticism, and all-around impact makes him exactly the kind of high-upside piece the team seems to be chasing this winter.

    The Coming Week: Expect Movement in Atlanta

    League insiders say the next week looks busy for both free agency and the trade market. Outfielders like Ozuna and Robert are drawing a lot of attention.

    The Braves know timing matters. Other teams want the same players, and waiting too long could mean missing out—again.

    The front office seems determined to avoid that. Atlanta wants to patch up roster holes from injuries and recent changes, especially in pitching and the outfield.

    They’re aiming to stay in the championship mix for 2025. You can feel the urgency in their moves.

    Maybe they’ll grab a steady starter, or go after a big bat for the middle of the lineup. Could we see a blockbuster for a star outfielder? Honestly, it’s all on the table right now.

    The Braves aren’t just watching from the sidelines. The next few days might decide the entire direction of their season.

     
    Here is the source article for this story: Atlanta Braves News: Starting Pitching, Marcell Ozuna, More

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