The Atlanta Braves opted to part ways with Ramon Laureano at the non-tender deadline, one of several cost-conscious moves orchestrated by General Manager Alex Anthopoulos this offseason. While fans hope these savings will be reinvested into the roster, the team now faces a noticeable gap in their outfield lineup.
With Ronald Acuña Jr. likely starting the season on the injured list, Atlanta finds itself short on outfield depth. Currently, the roster includes the sidelined Acuña Jr., alongside Jarred Kelenic, Michael Harris II, Eli White, Luke Williams, and Carlos D. Rodriguez—a lesser-known player who has yet to make a name for himself. Clearly, changes are needed, especially as the Braves aim to stay under the luxury tax threshold while remaining competitive.
A Familiar Face for a Familiar Role?
Replacing Laureano is no small task, as he proved valuable during his brief stint with Atlanta, posting an impressive .832 OPS over 226 plate appearances from late May onward. Still, the Braves seem poised to pursue a left-handed bat for their outfield—a role that could perfectly suit a former fan favorite: Jason Heyward.
The Georgia native and former Braves top prospect made a splash in his rookie season in 2010, earning an NL All-Star nod and establishing himself as an elite defender with five Gold Glove awards to his name. Though Heyward’s offensive prowess has waned, he has shown flashes of productivity in recent years. In 2024, he delivered a respectable 1.2 WAR in limited action, a level of performance that could fill the temporary void until Acuña Jr.’s return.
A Strategic Stopgap
Heyward’s veteran presence, defensive reliability, and leadership would make him an ideal stopgap solution. Once Acuña Jr. is back in action, Heyward could transition to a bench role, offering depth and stability to a roster aiming for postseason glory.
Last season, Heyward split time with the Dodgers and Astros. Recruited to Los Angeles by former Braves teammate Freddie Freeman, Heyward was ultimately released after delivering a walk-off hit, a move that surprised many given his reputation as a clubhouse leader. At 35, Heyward may not be the dynamic player of his early years, but he brings qualities the Braves sorely lack at the moment.
For Atlanta, a reunion with Heyward wouldn’t just be sentimental—it could be the pragmatic move to patch up their roster while staying financially flexible.
