Braves Potential Free Agent Targets: Designated Hitters

This has all the makings of a fun offseason for the Atlanta Braves — the complete opposite of last winter, when Alex Anthopoulos essentially sat on his hands for five months.

A disappointing season can light a fire under any front office, and with the Braves having reset the luxury tax, there’s no excuse not to be aggressive once free agency begins and the trade market reopens after the World Series. If they aren’t, an already frustrated fan base has every reason to raise its pitchforks. This team brings in far too much revenue to be pinching pennies.

In this series, I’ll highlight potential Braves free-agent targets at positions of need — of which there are plenty — starting with designated hitters.

Braves Potential Free Agent Targets: Designated Hitters

Marcell Ozuna
Let’s start with one of Atlanta’s own. Marcell Ozuna had some memorable moments in a Braves uniform — most notably his 79 homers between 2023 and 2024 — but also plenty of forgettable ones. Keeping the veteran on a short, one-year deal could make some sense if the team believes he can bounce back after an injury-plagued season. However, the Braves might prefer a player who offers at least some defensive versatility, and Ozuna’s days in the field are long behind him.

Kyle Schwarber
History suggests Kyle Schwarber will be out of the Braves’ price range. Reports indicate he’ll be seeking a five-year deal worth around $150 million, a hefty price for a 33-year-old designated hitter. Still, Schwarber checks every box for contending teams. He’s among the premier power hitters in the game, is universally loved in the clubhouse, and has a track record of postseason heroics. Schwarber has the kind of upside where teams should be willing to reconfigure their roster to fit him into the picture.

Jorge Polanco
Jorge Polanco likely boosted his value with a stellar postseason that helped the Mariners come within reach of the World Series. He’s been a reliable hitter since 2019, with his only major concern being durability. Entering his age-32 season, that could deter some teams, but it also means he won’t command an outrageous deal. Polanco can still handle second and third base, giving the Braves a versatile option who could serve as Ozzie Albies insurance if the former All-Star continues to regress.

Starling Marte
There’s a steep drop-off in quality after the top three, but Starling Marte could draw some interest. He doesn’t possess the power typical of a designated hitter, yet his affordability and ability to play the corner outfield make him appealing. With Ronald Acuña Jr.’s recurring injury issues, Marte’s versatility could provide valuable depth.