3 Decisions for the Braves After Exercising Ronald Acuna and Ozzie Albies’ Options
Two key options exercised
The Braves announced Thursday that they had exercised options for Acuna and Albies for 2027. Acuna’s club option is valued at $17 million, and Albies’ is worth $7 million.
The decisions keep two major contributors in Atlanta’s lineup for at least another season. The team won the National League East this year, but the Los Angeles Dodgers eliminated it in the National League Division Series.
Shortstop needs attention
Atlanta signed Ha-Seong Kim to a one-year, $20 million deal last year. In 51 regular-season games with the Braves in 2026, the 31-year-old hit .116 and had no home runs, leaving the team likely to seek another shortstop.
Mauricio Dubon appeared at several positions, including shortstop in 62 games. He is entering free agency, but Atlanta could consider bringing him back; the team could also explore a trade for Jeremy Pena or CJ Abrams.
Closer and rotation questions
Raisel Iglesias earned his first All-Star selection in 2026, with a 2.55 ERA and 34 saves. The 36-year-old is an unrestricted free agent, so Atlanta may need another closer if he does not re-sign.
Didier Fuentes is one possible in-house option. The 21-year-old right-hander recorded a 2.45 ERA in 58 games, but his role next season—starter or reliever—remains uncertain and could depend on Atlanta’s closer plans.
Pitching market may matter
The Braves also have questions about their rotation after injuries affected several starters this year. The team’s expectations for Spencer Schwellenbach and Spencer Strider will depend on whether they are healthy and return to the rotation.
Tyler Mahle delivered a 1.99 ERA in nine regular-season starts and a 1.35 ERA in two playoff outings after Atlanta acquired him in August. The 32-year-old is headed for free agency, and the Braves may try to re-sign him while pursuing other pitching options.
Key points
- Atlanta exercised Acuna’s $17 million option and Albies’ $7 million option for 2027.
- The Braves may seek a shortstop after Ha-Seong Kim hit .116 in 51 regular-season games.
- Raisel Iglesias is an unrestricted free agent after recording 34 saves and a 2.55 ERA.
- Atlanta’s rotation plans involve injuries, uncertain roles and Tyler Mahle’s free agency.