The Atlanta Braves have had a quiet offseason so far, but that’s not expected to last as the team has pressing needs across all areas of the roster. Among those, the outfield appears to be the most urgent concern. With Michael Harris II as the only healthy starter returning from the end of 2024, the Braves must bolster their options. While Jarred Kelenic could potentially fill an everyday role, the team still needs another starting outfielder until Ronald Acuña Jr. is ready to return.
The bullpen is another area requiring attention, especially with Joe Jimenez recovering from injury and AJ Minter entering free agency. Adding a high-leverage reliever is essential, and the starting rotation could also benefit from additional depth.
As offseason options begin to dwindle, the Braves might consider a versatile free agent like Jeff Hoffman, whose contract expectations have recently surfaced. According to Matt Gelb of The Athletic, Hoffman is seeking a deal comparable to the three-year, $38 million contract Clay Holmes signed with the Mets. Similar to Holmes, Hoffman could potentially transition into a starting role.
The Braves have previously succeeded with a similar strategy, signing Reynaldo Lopez to a three-year, $30 million deal last offseason and successfully transitioning him into a starter. Lopez exceeded expectations, finishing the season with a 1.99 ERA and 1.11 WHIP.
Hoffman’s career trajectory has been impressive. After a lackluster start in the majors, where he accrued less than 1.0 WAR, he revitalized his performance with the Phillies, recording 3.5 WAR over two seasons. During that stretch, he posted a 2.28 ERA and 0.944 WHIP across 118.2 innings, showcasing his potential as both a starter and reliever.
For the Braves, signing Hoffman could be a win-win situation:
- Worst-case scenario: Hoffman becomes a reliable high-leverage reliever.
- Best-case scenario: He exceeds expectations as a cost-effective addition to the starting rotation.
Though the Braves have not yet been publicly linked to Hoffman, the team often operates under the radar before making moves. If signed, Hoffman could provide valuable versatility and address multiple roster needs.
