Braves Plan $7M Ozzie Albies Option Amid Trade Speculation

The Atlanta Braves are preparing to be sellers at the MLB trade deadline as their 2025 season looks unlikely to reach the postseason. Despite struggles from key players like Ozzie Albies, the Braves plan to pick up his $7 million option for 2026 but remain open to trade offers, balancing the potential to develop him or gain value from a trade. Reliever Pierce Johnson has emerged as one of their best assets, with a reasonable contract option making him attractive to contenders, potentially including the Toronto Blue Jays, while Raisel Iglesias' trade value has increased due to the Orioles closer Felix Bautista's injury. Catcher Sean Murphy, under contract through 2028, is expected to be retained through the season despite speculation, as the Braves view him as a long-term asset alongside rising player Drake Baldwin, with any trade for Murphy more likely in the offseason. Overall, the Braves are strategically managing their roster to maximize returns on players, especially relievers and controllable assets, amid their transition toward rebuilding. Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Brewers, a strong contender this season, are unlikely to trade key players like Freddy Peralta, focusing instead on bolstering their roster for a World Series run.