The Atlanta Braves have finally made a move this offseason, signing outfielder Bryan De La Cruz to a one-year, non-guaranteed contract. After weeks of inactivity and watching other teams scoop up talent, the Braves have added a potential depth piece to their roster.
De La Cruz is a familiar name to Braves fans, having spent the last four seasons with the NL East rival Miami Marlins. Last season, he was traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates at the deadline, but struggled through the remainder of the year. As a result, the Pirates non-tendered him ahead of the recent deadline. Over his career, De La Cruz has posted a .253/.297/.407 slash line with 58 home runs and a 90 wRC+.
In 2024, De La Cruz hit .233/.271/.384 with 21 homers, a 77 wRC+, and -1.2 fWAR. His offensive metrics, including average exit velocity, have declined over the past few seasons, and his defensive numbers have been subpar, ranking in the 14th percentile for Fielding Run Value. With these struggles, he’s expected to serve as a depth outfielder for the Braves.
De La Cruz could start the season in a platoon role with Jarred Kelenic while superstar Ronald Acuña Jr. recovers from his knee injury. However, with De La Cruz still having minor league options, he may start the year in Gwinnett. His most likely role is as a depth piece with some upside, unless the Braves can unlock more from his potential.
This move shouldn’t stop the Braves from pursuing another outfielder who could take on an everyday role in left field. If De La Cruz can regain his offensive form, this could turn into a valuable low-risk, high-reward signing. Provided it’s not their only outfield addition this offseason, this can be seen as another smart reclamation project by GM Alex Anthopoulos.
