Free-agent outfielder Alex Verdugo has signed a one-year major league contract with the Atlanta Braves, as reported by Brendan Kuty of The Athletic.
Verdugo, 28, spent the 2024 season with the New York Yankees, where he posted an 83 OPS+ — the first time in his career he finished a full season below average. He batted .233/.291/.647, hitting 13 home runs and driving in 61 RBIs over 621 plate appearances. In the postseason, he started 14 games, finishing with a .208/.309/.313 line, one home run, and eight RBIs in 56 plate appearances.
Prior to his time with the Yankees, Verdugo spent four seasons with the Boston Red Sox and three seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Verdugo earned $8.7 million in 2024, but the terms of his new contract with Atlanta have not been disclosed. Over the course of his eight-year career, he has hit .272 with a .742 OPS, 70 home runs, and 316 RBIs.
The Braves’ season begins on March 27 against the San Diego Padres. It remains uncertain whether Verdugo will have enough time and at-bats to be ready for Opening Day. With Braves right fielder Ronald Acuña Jr. still recovering from ACL surgery and yet to appear in a spring training game, Verdugo will likely have the opportunity to prove himself and secure a regular spot on the roster for the season.
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