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Alex Anthopoulos has eye-opening comments on the Jurickson Profar situation
Alex Anthopoulos weighs Jurickson Profar's future with the Braves amid controversy. Anthopoulos says no decisions are made yet, but the team must consider whether the right‑handed outfielder—who cost Atlanta $40 million and faced two PED suspensions—offers enough value to justify keeping his $15 million salary. Reporter Mark Bowman notes the club will likely seek a replacement, while Profar posts a .315 average in the Venezuelan Winter League. The offseason looms, and Atlanta's culture and competitive goals hang in the balance.
Braves hypothetical trade for Corey Seager
The Braves, still lacking a true shortstop, could fix the position by trading for Texas Rangers star Corey Seager. A proposed deal sends Seager and $20 million cash to Atlanta in exchange for pitcher Spencer Strider, reliever Reynaldo Lopez, prospect Owen Murphy and Luke Sinnard. The Rangers would absorb Strider’s $44 million salary and Lopez’s final $8 million year, effectively halving Seager’s $155 million contract. At 33, Seager may shift to second base or DH, complementing the Braves’ young infield talent and covering Ozzie Albies’ upcoming free agency. However, Seager’s full no‑trade clause could block the move.
What grade does Kevin Stefanski deserve for the Falcons season thus far?
Entering Week 10 at 3-6, the Falcons hover near the NFC South lead but look far from ready, and head coach Kevin Stefanski earns a D. The article cites a fading early‑season buzz, a struggling run game despite Bijan Robinson, and offensive line decline. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. remains inconsistent, especially under pressure, raising doubts about his franchise potential. Defensively, Atlanta’s once‑dominant rush unit has crumbled against stronger offenses, leaving gaps for future free‑agents. Stefanski’s inability to adapt—highlighted by a 16‑0 loss to the Buccaneers in a monsoon—underscores the coaching staff’s shortcomings.
Not a good sign for the Braves chances of signing Randy Arozarena, Seiya Suzuki
The Braves’ left‑field void is unlikely to be solved by free agents Randy Arozarena or Seiya Suzuki, according to SportsTalk ATL. Both right‑handed sluggers project 25+ homers and an .800 OPS, but agent Scott Boras is demanding a six‑year, $150 million contract for Arozarena—a price the Braves’ GM Alex Anthopoulos typically avoids, especially for players in their 30s. Even a 4‑5‑year, $100 million deal would cost the team draft picks and international pool money due to qualifying offers. Given Anthopoulos’s cautious free‑agency history, the article argues the Braves will likely pass on both targets.
Jeff Passan names the perfect free agent target for the Braves
Jeff Passan argues the Atlanta Braves should pursue right‑hander Sonny Gray in free agency to shore up a rotation that currently leans on Bryce Elder, Grant Holmes and the injury‑prone Didier Fuentes. Gray, entering his 15th season, posted a 2.72 ERA with the Boston Red Sox and consistently limits runs despite a modest strikeout dip. At a projected two‑year, $50 million deal—comparable to contracts for Charlie Morton and Chris Sale—he fits the Braves’ budgetary style under Alex Anthopoulos. While younger options like Trevor Rogers exist, Gray represents a realistic, high‑impact target the club has long rumored about.
Kevin Stefanski has injury update on Brian Robinson Jr.
Falcons RB Brian Robinson Jr., who posted 44 carries for nearly 200 yards and four touchdowns in the first four weeks, is placed on Injured Reserve after a hamstring setback in practice, says head coach Kevin Stefanski. The injury, suffered during Week 6 versus the Bears, sidelines him for several weeks, leaving Bijan Robinson as the primary rusher. Backup Khalil Herbert has seen limited touches, prompting questions about additional depth at running back for Atlanta’s remainder of the season.
Braves hypothetical trade for Gunnar Henderson
The Braves’ shortstop woes could be solved by a blockbuster trade for Orioles star Gunnar Henderson. The hypothetical deal sends Baltimore a package of five top prospects—Tate Southisene, Eric Hartman, A.J. Smith‑Shawver, Alex Lodise and Briggs McKenzie—in exchange for Henderson, who once posted an 8.8 WAR season at 23 but fell to 3.2 WAR, a .225 average and .712 OPS this year. At 25, he still offers five‑plus WAR potential and two more years of control, but the price reflects his elite upside. The trade would drain Atlanta’s farm system, explaining why GM Alex Anthopoulos remains cautious.
Report: Giants were trying to trade for Bijan Robinson
Giants general manager John Harbaugh reportedly contacted the Falcons before the trade deadline in an effort to acquire star running back Bijan Robinson, according to ESPN's Jordan Raanan. Despite the Giants’ surprising 5‑2‑1 start under Harbaugh, quarterback injuries leave them far from a championship contender, making such a costly move—likely demanding two first‑round picks—seem unlikely. Robinson, who just signed a three‑year extension with Atlanta, is considered the NFL’s top running back, and the Falcons have shown no intent to trade him, focusing instead on rebuilding through draft capital. The rumor highlights the Giants’ speculative front‑office strategy ahead of the playoffs.
Ken Rosenthal mentions Braves as potential suitors for Corey Seager
Ken Rosenthal reports that the Texas Rangers are exploring a trade for shortstop Corey Seager, and the Atlanta Braves top the list of potential suitors. Seager, 33, is owed $155 million and will enter next season after elbow surgery, plus he carries a full no‑trade clause. The Braves could offset his contract by shedding Spencer Strider’s $22 million‑per‑year deal, but that hinges on Strider’s health and performance. With limited free‑agent options at shortstop, Atlanta must decide whether to gamble on Seager’s talent, money, or develop prospects like Mauricio Dubon.
Alex Anthopoulos does not mince words regarding a Ronald Acuña trade
Alex Anthopoulos makes it crystal‑clear that the Atlanta Braves will not trade Ronald Acuña Jr., despite fan speculation after the team's postseason exit. Citing Acuña’s 2023 MVP form and his team‑friendly contract, Anthopoulos says the club must keep the star and "add to him" during the offseason. He highlights the need to surround a healthy Acuña with talent like Chris Sale, Matt Olson and Michael Harris II to turn a 94‑win roster into a championship contender, especially as Ozzie Albies and Acuña approach free agency and other key players age. The article warns that this winter’s moves could dramatically shape Atlanta’s future.
Alex Anthopoulos provides updates on Spencer Strider and Spencer Schwellenbach
Alex Anthopoulos says Braves right‑hander Spencer Strider is on track to return for spring training, but his post‑surgery form has slipped, with a near‑5.00 ERA and reduced velocity. In contrast, left‑hander Spencer Schwellenbach remains a year away from the mound after a fractured elbow and subsequent surgery that left a screw in his arm; the club will bring him back very cautiously, likely missing the 2027 start. With both pitchers uncertain, Atlanta may need to add another frontline starter to pair with Chris Sale.
Falcons make trade at the buzzer with the Ravens
The Falcons pull off a last‑minute deal at the Tuesday deadline, sending starting center Ryan Neuzil to the Ravens for guard Andrew Vorhees and a 2028 sixth‑round pick. Neuzil, a five‑year Atlantan who started 26 straight games, reunites with former OL coach Dwayne Ledford in Baltimore. Vorhees, a 2023 seventh‑rounder who started 22 games for the Ravens, adds depth to a guard group already anchored by Chris Lindstrom and Matthew Bergeron, and may serve as a backup center. With veteran Corey Levin likely to earn a shot at the position, Atlanta reshapes its interior line as the season heads into its final stretch.
The Vikings traded for Kirk Cousins, which isn’t great news for the Falcons
The Minnesota Vikings acquire veteran QB Kirk Cousins from the Las Vegas Raiders just before the trade deadline, bolstering a Super Bowl‑contending offense. Cousins, who previously spent six seasons in Minnesota before a brief, troubled stint with the Atlanta Falcons—who later drafted Michael Penix Jr. eighth overall—posted a 64.1% completion rate and 20 touchdowns with the Raiders. His move makes the Vikings’ Week 12 showdown in Minnesota even tougher for the Falcons, who struggle against blitzes and have a pressure‑vulnerable quarterback in Penix. The trade adds fresh intrigue to Atlanta’s already brutal schedule.
The Falcons are making a change at kicker
The Atlanta Falcons release veteran kicker Nick Folk after going 5‑for‑9 on field goals this season and sign 26‑year‑old Jake Moody from the Ravens practice squad. Folk, who was the league’s most accurate kicker over the past three years, struggled with short attempts and may be done in the NFL after a 19‑year career. Moody, who just made a 53‑yard field goal against Jacksonville, offers a younger, long‑term option after a modest rookie year in San Francisco and a 19‑of‑23 season last year.
Atlanta Braves hypothetical trade for Jeremy Peña
The Atlanta Braves are eyeing a trade for former All‑Star shortstop Jeremy Peña, the 2022 World Series MVP, to finally upgrade a weak spot in their infield. With free‑agent options scarce, the blog outlines a deal sending Astros prospect A.J. Smith‑Shawver, right‑hander John Gil and former top‑100 prospect JR Ritchie to Houston in exchange for Peña. The author highlights Peña’s right‑handed bat, .300‑plus average versus lefties, and low strikeout rate in 2025 as perfect fits for Atlanta’s lineup, and notes his connection to former Astros GM Dana Brown now with the Braves. The piece also discusses the Braves’ willingness to pay a modest price and the potential for extending Peña beyond his 2027 free‑agent year.
ESPN grades the Falcons trade of Jessie Bates III
The Falcons trade safety Jessie Bates III for a 2027 second‑rounder and a 2028 fifth‑rounder, a move ESPN grades B+. With a 3‑6 record and $110 million in 2027 cap space, Atlanta prioritizes future flexibility over a slim postseason chance. Analysts note the trade avoids losing Bates for nothing due to compensatory pick rules and acknowledges the team's wider roster struggles, including inconsistent quarterback Michael Penix Jr. The added picks give the Falcons a better shot at rebuilding, even if they remain underdogs in the NFC South.
Ken Rosenthal: The Braves Likely Won’t Trade Acuña — But Will They Extend Him?
MLB insider Jon Morosi says the Braves have no plans to trade Ronald Acuña Jr., and veteran reporter Ken Rosenthal agrees the club will keep the star in right field for Opening Day 2027. Instead, the real question is whether Atlanta will lock Acuña into a long‑term deal after his $17 million salary this season, especially as he rebounds from his toughest, fully healthy year. Rosenthal notes Acuña’s talent still ranks among the top five in baseball and that his personality isn’t a clubhouse distraction. If the Braves wait too long and he posts a breakout 2027, a reasonable extension may slip away.
Braves beat reporter on whether Jurickson Profar will return next season
The Atlanta Braves face a tough offseason decision on right‑handed outfielder Jurickson Profar, who has been suspended for PEDs in two consecutive seasons. While GM Alex Anthopoulos says the club will discuss the issue internally, veteran beat reporter Mark Bowman argues Profar’s return is unlikely, noting the franchise would have to absorb his $15 million salary and risk cultural damage. Bowman predicts the Braves will prioritize signing a new right‑handed outfielder instead, making Profar’s departure the most plausible outcome.
Braves Report: NL East rival interested in Ha-Seong Kim
The Braves’ $20 million gamble on shortstop Ha‑Seong Kim flopped after a hand injury sidelined him for two months, leaving him with a .116 average, .359 OPS and –0.7 WAR in just 51 games. While Atlanta is unlikely to re‑sign him, Philadelphia is reportedly eyeing the 31‑year‑old as a low‑cost, bounce‑back option, especially with free‑agent Mauricio Dubon seeking a multi‑year deal. Kim’s poor season was heavily injury‑related, making him an intriguing buy‑low candidate for the Phillies as the offseason begins.
Braves: How untradeable is the contract of Austin Riley?
The Braves’ 10‑year, $212 million extension with Austin Riley is now deemed one of MLB’s most untradeable deals. After three MVP‑caliber seasons (2021‑23) and a steep decline post‑injury, Riley posted a .219 average, 80 OPS+ and just 20 homers in 2026, leaving six years and $132 million on his contract. General manager Alex Anthopoulos’s strategy of locking in young talent early now limits the team’s flexibility, and Riley’s sliding performance makes other clubs wary of taking on his remaining salary. At 29, his future impact remains uncertain.
Kevin Stefanski: Falcons are not “punting” on the season
Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski insists Atlanta isn’t “punting” on the 2026 season despite a 3‑6 record and recent losses to the Buccaneers and Bengals. With the trade deadline looming, the team shipped safety Jessie Bates III to the Jaguars for a 2027 second‑round and a 2028 fifth‑round pick, a move aimed at future depth as Bates heads toward free agency. Stefanski says the goal remains winning the NFC South, believing the squad can still reach 7‑8 wins and snap the playoff drought dating back to 2017.
The Falcons need to replace Nick Folk
The Falcons’ gamble on 42‑year‑old veteran kicker Nick Folk is backfiring. After a 72.2% conversion rate—five misses in nine games and his first sub‑40‑yard miss since 2017—Folk is posting his worst numbers since 2009. The article argues the team should have pursued a younger, long‑term solution instead of a short‑term fix, especially as Atlanta rebuilds, highlighted by the recent trade of Jessie Bates III. With eight games left, the Falcons could use the period as a tryout for emerging kickers.
MLB insider on Braves potentially trading Ronald Acuña Jr.
Despite a disappointing 2023 season and lingering injury concerns, MLB insiders say trading Ronald Acuña Jr. this offseason is “highly unlikely.” Both Jon Heyman and Jon Morosi note that the Braves, coming off a 94‑win NL East title and still in championship mode, have no incentive to move their star, especially with a guaranteed year left on his contract and a 2028 club option. The article argues that a rebuild is the only scenario that would justify a deal, but Atlanta’s recent playoff success suggests they’ll keep Acuña to chase a title in 2027.
Jessie Bates III is gone, who could go next for the Falcons
The Falcons trade Jessie Bates III to the Jaguars for two draft picks, sparking speculation about a flurry of moves before the Nov. 10 trade deadline. While the Bates deal nets a premium pick and a future fifth‑rounder, Atlanta may also consider offloading high‑cost players like CB A.J. Terrell, who carries a $81 million contract, linebacker Divine Deablo, veteran corner Mike Hughes, or even tight end Kyle Pitts, whose under‑whelming stats this season could lower his market value. The article weighs each name’s trade potential and how these moves could reshape the Falcons’ future despite their slim NFC South hopes.
Falcons complete blockbuster trade, send Jessie Bates III to Jaguars
The Atlanta Falcons trade All-Pro safety Jessie Bates III to the Jacksonville Jaguars for a 2027 second‑round pick and a 2028 fifth‑round pick, finalizing one of the season’s biggest moves. Bates, a four‑year, $64 million signee who forced 24 turnovers and scored four defensive TDs in 3½ seasons, leaves a 3‑6 Falcons team still in playoff contention despite recent losses. With Bates entering free agency and approaching 30, the Falcons cash in his value to bolster their draft capital and accelerate a rebuild centered on a promising rookie class.
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