This move doesn’t change the Braves’ pursuit of a SS. They could benefit from the versatility that both Dubon and Yaz would bring to the roster https://t.co/Zvi060IEH4
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) December 11, 2025
A reunion with Ha-Seong Kim remains on the table. As a Boras client, Kim’s projected AAV (estimated in the $10–20 million range) could be steep if it trends upward. Still, he fits this roster perfectly, slotting in as a true everyday shortstop while pushing Mauricio Dubón into the versatile super-utility role he excels in.
Starting pitching depth is another area Anthopoulos has repeatedly emphasized. A rotation of Sale, Schwellenbach, Strider, Waldrep, López, and Holmes looks strong on paper, but we all know what one or two injuries can do. Elder remains a stable innings-eater, and JR Ritchie, Just Baseball’s No. 94 overall prospect, could debut. But counting solely on health is a losing gamble.
Atlanta was never truly in on Dylan Cease, nor should they pursue top-end names like Framber Valdez, Michael King, Ranger Suarez, or Zac Gallen given their cost and qualifying offer penalties. More practical fits are Chris Bassitt and Merrill Kelly. Two reliable veterans who bring durability, postseason experience, and predictable performance.
Ultimately, predicting Anthopoulos’ next move is a fool’s errand. History tells us the unexpected is more likely than the obvious.
Overall Thoughts
Atlanta has committed nearly $60 million so far this offseason, and still has up to nearly $50 million available to spend. Will they? That remains to be seen.
But the Yastrzemski signing is undeniably positive. It raises the floor, improves flexibility, deepens the roster, and gives the Braves competence where they desperately lacked it in 2025. It may not be a headline-making move, but it’s one that will matter throughout the course of the season.