As the Atlanta Braves continue to navigate their way through an evolving 2026 season, one major storyline has emerged from both media circles and fan conversations alike — is Braves Marcell Ozuna waiver candidate a phrase that could soon become reality?
This isn’t a question that’s been asked lightly. It’s one rooted in performance fluctuations, roster implications, financial commitments, and the team’s long-term strategy. Marcell Ozuna, once a postseason hero and a feared slugger in the middle of the Braves’ lineup, now finds himself under scrutiny. Not just for performance at the plate, but for how his presence fits into Atlanta’s bigger puzzle moving forward.
Let’s take a deep dive into this complex, multi-layered topic and break down why the notion of Braves Marcell Ozuna waiver candidate is gaining traction — and what it could mean for the organization’s trajectory.
Marcell Ozuna: The Highs and Lows of His Braves Tenure
When the Braves signed Marcell Ozuna in 2020 to a one-year deal and subsequently extended him to a four-year contract worth $65 million in 2021, the hope was that his offensive prowess — particularly the 2020 season where he led the National League in home runs and RBIs — would carry Atlanta’s lineup through the next several seasons.
For a while, he delivered.
- In the pandemic-shortened 2020 season, Ozuna was an MVP-caliber hitter.
- He formed a lethal combination with Freddie Freeman and Ronald Acuña Jr.
- His clutch hits and power numbers fueled the Braves’ deep postseason run.
But as quickly as things soared, they began to spiral.
Off-Field Issues and Inconsistent Production
No analysis of Ozuna’s status can ignore his off-field controversies. In 2021, he faced domestic violence allegations, which led to legal issues and a suspension under MLB’s joint domestic violence policy. These events caused a significant reputational hit, and many fans began questioning his future with the franchise.
On-field performance also became erratic:
- In 2022 and early 2023, his batting average dipped below .230.
- He frequently struggled with strikeouts and poor plate discipline.
- His defense in left field was below average, leading to frequent DH usage.
Despite a late 2023 resurgence and improved play into early 2024, the inconsistency remains a concern. The Braves, known for building one of the deepest lineups and most sustainable farm systems in baseball, now face a conundrum: Does Marcell Ozuna still have a place on this team, or is he a luxury they can no longer afford?
Roster Crunch: Youth Movement Meets Veteran Obstacles
One of the most pressing reasons why the Braves Marcell Ozuna waiver candidate discussion has intensified is the team’s evolving roster makeup. Atlanta has an abundance of young, controllable talent — and they’re knocking on the major league door.
Key factors pressuring roster decisions:
- Jarred Kelenic and Michael Harris II are proving themselves as dynamic outfielders.
- Forrest Wall and Dylan Dodd are pushing for more playing time.
- Austin Riley, Matt Olson, and Ozzie Albies are entrenched core players under long-term deals.
- Designated hitter (DH) flexibility is becoming increasingly valuable for rest days and younger players needing at-bats.
Carrying a veteran like Ozuna, who’s primarily limited to DH and offers no defensive versatility, restricts the team’s in-game maneuverability. This is particularly relevant in an era where roster flexibility and platoon advantages are crucial to postseason success.
Financial Implications: What Does Cutting Ozuna Cost?
The most obvious barrier to any waiver consideration is Ozuna’s contract. He is owed $16 million for the 2026 season — the final year of his deal.
But Atlanta has shown in the past that financial deadweight won’t stop bold moves. The Braves previously released veterans with significant money left on their deals, including:
- Ender Inciarte
- Cole Hamels
- Marcelo Zuna’s own suspension in 2021, which didn’t stop the team from trading for high-priced outfielders later that year
Given the team’s ownership under Liberty Media, many expected penny-pinching. But GM Alex Anthopoulos has routinely prioritized performance and fit over financial commitment.
So, if Ozuna becomes a detriment to the team’s chemistry, performance, or flexibility, they might be willing to eat the remainder of the contract.
Trade Market: Any Value Left?
Before placing him on waivers, the Braves may explore trade options. Even if the return is minimal — or requires including cash considerations — a trade could be a face-saving way to move on.
Potential landing spots could include:
- AL teams needing DH help
- Rebuilding teams willing to take a flier in exchange for prospects
- Clubs facing injuries to key sluggers
The biggest challenge will be convincing another team to take on salary, especially without the Braves having to attach premium prospects — something Anthopoulos has largely avoided.
Clubhouse Chemistry and Fan Sentiment
One factor often overlooked in pure stat-based analysis is clubhouse culture. The Braves have built a tight-knit core of homegrown stars — Acuña, Albies, Riley, Harris — and veterans like Travis d’Arnaud who embody the team-first mentality.
Ozuna’s off-field history and occasional on-field antics have drawn criticism. While he’s had support from some teammates publicly, the front office may weigh the risks of disruption if younger players feel blocked or underutilized.
Fan support has also waned. While some appreciate his contributions during the 2021 World Series run, others view him as a liability or emblematic of outdated roster philosophy.
Losing the fan base and locker room simultaneously? That’s when waiver options start looking like necessity, not choice.
What Happens If He’s Waived?
If Ozuna is placed on waivers, two main scenarios can unfold:
- Claimed by another team: The claiming team would take on his remaining salary. This is unlikely unless the Braves agree to cover part of the contract.
- Goes unclaimed: If he clears waivers, Atlanta could either assign him to a minor league affiliate (if he accepts the assignment), or release him outright, eating the rest of the contract.
The latter is the most probable. In that case, he becomes a free agent and can sign with any team, likely at the league minimum — with the Braves still paying the balance of his contract.
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Statistical Snapshot: Is Ozuna Still an Asset?
Despite ups and downs, Ozuna still flashes power. As of late 2025, his slugging percentage hovers around .450, and he’s on pace for 20-25 home runs. That’s not negligible production.
However:
- His on-base percentage remains below league average.
- He rarely walks and frequently strikes out in key spots.
- His Win Above Replacement (WAR) is hovering near 0, suggesting a replacement-level player.
This data paints a stark picture: while he can still occasionally contribute, he’s not irreplaceable.
Anthopoulos and the Braves Front Office: History of Bold Decisions
Alex Anthopoulos has built a reputation for calculated ruthlessness:
- Non-tendering franchise favorites
- Letting Freeman walk to make way for Olson
- Pulling off multiple trades during the 2021 stretch run that rebuilt an entire outfield in weeks
If history is any guide, sentiment will not override logic.
If Ozuna isn’t pulling his weight, the label of Braves Marcell Ozuna waiver candidate may soon become reality — regardless of contract, past heroics, or name value.
What Comes Next for the Braves?
Whether or not the Braves move on from Ozuna, one thing is clear: the team is in the midst of a generational transition. Young talent is everywhere, and they’re not waiting in line. They’re demanding opportunity — and results.
Possible replacements or role fillers if Ozuna is waived:
- More DH at-bats for Kelenic and Harris
- Utility use of Vaughn Grissom or Forrest Wall
- Trade deadline acquisition of a more versatile bat
The Braves’ championship window is wide open, but so are the expectations. And in a postseason-focused era, every roster spot counts. There’s little room for dead weight.
Conclusion: A Crossroads Moment in Atlanta
The question of whether the Braves Marcell Ozuna waiver candidate speculation is justified isn’t simply about his stats — it’s about value. Value to the team’s on-field strategy. Value to its clubhouse chemistry. Value to its vision of the future.
Ozuna may still have moments of brilliance left. He may find his swing again and prove doubters wrong. But the pressure is mounting, the roster is tightening, and the Braves may soon be forced to make a decision they hoped to avoid.
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