Atlanta Braves MAILBAG: Can Braves AFFORD Ronald Acuña Jr. After Kyle Tucker Signing?

Can the Atlanta Braves keep Ronald Acuña Jr. long-term after Kyle Tucker’s blockbuster deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers? Jake Mastroianni tackles the financial reality Braves fans face amid skyrocketing MLB contracts and explores whether a salary cap or stricter luxury tax penalties are the only way to restore balance between big spenders like the Dodgers, Mets, and Yankees and the rest of the league.

Jake covers the ripple effects of recent signings, including the Mets landing Bo Bichette and roster moves involving Marcell Ozuna, while questioning how Atlanta’s offseason grades out and what moves remain for Alex Anthopoulos. Key topics include the Braves’ lineup flexibility, Austin Riley’s contract expectations, and how payroll trends could shape future negotiations for star players. With insights on potential MLB CBA changes and listener-driven questions, this episode delivers sharp analysis on Atlanta’s roster strategy and the evolving economic landscape of baseball.

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12 comments

  1. We've seen over the last few years, the contracts the Dodgers/Mets hand out don't seem to impact the markets of other players. There's one market for players the Dodgers and Mets are targeting, and there's a different market for the rest of the teams.

  6. Look at the teams the Braves have had since we've had Acuna. The only time they won a world series is when Acuna missed significant time. Acuna is a great player, but it proves the point that "a" player doesn't win a world series. We've had Acuna all these years and have zero WS seasons that he played a significant role in. Kyler Tucker sure isn't going to win you a WS so I don't know why they would want to sign him to that kind of contract. I know everyone is talking about how the Dodgers can spend as much as they want, but the question is why. Tucker isn't that valuable. At some point, these decisions will have to come back and bite the Dodgers. They are getting over leveraged. Ohtani is one thing, but Tucker? Really?

  9. You make some great points as always Jake. But I do disagree with you on one piece.

    The Braves do not have the spending ability of the Mets or dodgers. No question. They simply cannot absorb multiple contracts north or 40m aav like the Mets can (plus lindors economical 35m aav).

    However where I do disagree with you is that the Braves unequivocally could withstand ONE mega aav contract. 5 years, 250m for Ronald. They have the money. And if you're ever going to do it (if not for Freddie) it's gotta be for Ronald. The entire roster is composed of team friendly 20-22m aav contracts. The Braves could make it happen if they wanted to, they just don't. It's not part of their strategic planning on running the franchise.

    So sad to say. Ronald's on borrowed time in Atlanta.

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