Few expected the Atlanta Braves to be struggling like this in 2025. After being swept by the Orioles, the team is now 39-50, sits 13.5 games behind in the NL East, and has dropped eight of its last ten games leading to serious questions about whether Atlanta should become sellers at the trade deadline.
Despite the mounting losses and the potential haul a superstar like Ronald Acuña Jr. could bring back, the Braves are not considering moving him. USA Today’s Bob Nightengale reports that Atlanta has “zero interest” in trading Acuña, who remains under team control through 2028 with a highly team-friendly contract.
Could the Braves Trade Ozzie Albies?
While Acuña is untouchable, other players might not be. MLB.com’s Mark Bowman recently suggested second baseman Ozzie Albies could be a trade candidate. Albies has struggled in 2025, batting just .222 with six homers and a .613 OPS, ranking near the bottom among qualified players. Though once seen as a major bargain on a $35 million deal signed in 2019, his recent performance and lingering concerns over a past wrist injury raise doubts about his long-term future in Atlanta.
Bowman suggests that if Albies’ offensive issues aren’t tied to injury, it may be smart for the Braves to explore trade options now rather than exercise his $7 million club options for 2026 and 2027.
Are the Braves Still Buyers?
Interestingly, despite their poor form, the Braves were rumored just weeks ago to be considering adding talent at the deadline rather than selling. The Athletic’s Jim Bowden reported that Atlanta, along with the Red Sox and Rangers, might look to improve their rosters for this season and beyond. Pitching both starters and relievers—was noted as the Braves’ top priority.
Given their continued support for Acuña and a front office that still might view this team as capable of competing soon, the Braves may not be ready to sell off key pieces just yet—though changes could still come.
