The Atlanta Braves’ 2026 run just hit a major L. After a solid 94-win regular season and clinching the NL East under first-year manager Walt Weiss, the team got sent home by the Dodgers in Game 4 of the NLDS. While they improved by 18 wins compared to their injury-plagued 2025 season, the early postseason exit stings. Since taking home the World Series in 2021, the club has only won one playoff series—this year’s Wild Card round—going 5-12 overall in the postseason.
The Core Concerns
Lead decision-maker Alex Anthopoulos built this squad through long-term extensions, but some of those cornerstone players are highkey struggling. Third baseman Austin Riley’s production has cratered, dropping to an 80 OPS+ this past season. Ozzie Albies is showing a steady pattern of decline at age 29, and Ronald Acuña Jr. is seeing his exit velocities dip, raising questions about whether his superstar prime is fading. Plus, catcher Sean Murphy remains a point of frustration due to recurring injuries and inconsistent play after the front office traded away William Contreras for him.
The Chris Sale Factor
At 37, Chris Sale is carrying the rotation on his back. He’s been a total beast, posting a 2.36 ERA over 76 starts with the Braves. He led the majors in K/BB ratio this year, but with his injury history and turning 38 this spring, relying on another dominant year is a massive gamble.
Future Moves
The Braves are still in win-now mode, but they need to be aggressive. With a $176 million payroll already committed for 2027, the front office has to get creative. They need to address gaps at shortstop and left field, but adding another high-tier starting pitcher is arguably the biggest priority. Names like Tarik Skubal and Michael King are at the top of the wish list to help keep the team competitive before rivals like the Marlins and Nationals level up.
Why it matters
The Braves have the talent, but the declining performance of their veteran core is a red flag. How they navigate the market this offseason will decide if they remain the team to beat in the NL East or if the window is closing.
