A few years ago, Alex Verdugo was considered a top prospect and a rising star. Now, he is just the shadow of his former self. This made the Yankees release him after just one year of service. The fans were concerned if he would be able to secure any place after the Yankees. However, Verdugo ultimately secured a deal with the Braves for a meager $1.5 million for 1 year. So, why did the Yankees let go of their talented outfielder at the first go? What does it mean for the Braves to take Verdugo to the team?

Verdugo’s early years with the Red Sox were promising, as evident by his strong 2021 output and .308 average in 2020. However, his offensive numbers have been progressively declining since then. In 2023, Verdugo hit .264 with just 13 home runs and 54 RBI, which is average but not good enough for an outfielder. In 2024, the Yankees put a bet on him. Verdugo, on the other hand, struggled even more, registering a .233 batting average with 61 RBI and 13 home homers. So, the Yankees, left with no other option, opted him for free agency.

The long delay in Verdugo’s new deal also proves his downhill value. Well, the Braves are willing to put a bet on Verdugo again in 2025. Reacting to the same, Yankees’ skipper Aaron Boone said, “He’s a big league player – and a good one. The Braves got a really good player for not a lot of money.”

Well, Verdugo is only 28 years old, so he should still have some gas left to accelerate. It would just take an injury to free up a position on the roster with the Braves. Till then, it’s Triple-A Gwinnett for Verdugo.

The Braves roster is stacked enough for this year

Alex Verdugo can offer some outfield depth as Jarred Kelenic is still having trouble and Ronald Acuña Jr. is still recovering from an ACL tear sustained last year. Although both Kelenic and Verdugo are capable of playing center field, they are most likely more suited for corner jobs. An area where Verdugo excels. Moreover, Kelenic still has a minor league option. The Braves may get him back on track in Gwinnett and replace him with Verdugo, employing the seasoned player in the previously mentioned fourth outfield position, if he struggles. Thus, a stacked roster just got strengthened further with Verdugo.

As per ESPN, the Braves are just behind the Dodgers in terms of getting the World Series ring. Yes, the Braves are projected at +800 even ahead of the Yankees, to get to the ring. That’s how good the team is. And why not? The starting rotation includes Grant Holmes, Spencer Schwellenbach, and Chris Sale. Together, they are coming with a projected 31 wins this year. Matt Olson, Ozzie Albies, and Austin Riley set to lead the plates with a projected 98 homers this season. Hence, a postseason run is just around the corner for the Braves.

2025 may be the one last time for Alex Verdugo to prove his mettle. Once done, he can make the money mill running again post-2025. 

Do you think Verdugo would be a good addition to the Braves? Let us know in the comments below.