After the dust settled on the Braves’ offseason, their biggest splash appeared to be signing Jurickson Profar, who was coming off an impressive 2024 campaign. His addition was meant to shore up a weak spot in Atlanta’s outfield. But in a bit of a curveball move, the Braves later added Alex Verdugo on a minor league deal—something that caught many by surprise.
Despite his name recognition and solid career track record, Verdugo remained unsigned longer than expected. While his offensive numbers dipped last season, he still brought reliable defense and experience to the table. For Atlanta to land him without a guaranteed roster spot wasn’t something many saw coming.
Now, with Profar suspended for PEDs and the rest of the Braves’ outfield struggling, Verdugo’s signing might just end up being the most important move of their offseason.
Verdugo could debut as soon as Monday as Braves’ outfield crisis deepens
Over the weekend, buzz began to build that Verdugo could get the call-up very soon. With Bryan De La Cruz, Jarred Kelenic, and others underperforming, the timing makes perfect sense. Braves beat writer Mark Bowman even hinted that Verdugo could be with the team for the start of their series against the Blue Jays.
The Braves aren’t expecting Verdugo to come in and play like a superstar—they just need steady production. If he can hit around .270, show some pop, and play solid defense, it would be a significant upgrade over what they’ve seen from the current group. Having someone like that in the lineup could be the key to keeping more offensive rallies alive.
As for what the team ultimately decides to do with Kelenic and De La Cruz, that’s a problem for later. Right now, Atlanta needs bats, and Verdugo’s hot start in the minors gives them a glimmer of hope. If he can hold down the fort until Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider are healthy again, it could be exactly what the Braves need to start turning their season around.
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