The Atlanta Braves will be picking up the 2026 club option on long-time second baseman Ozzie Albies’ contract, according to what Alex Anthopolous said during a radio interview earlier today.
Albies, who is the longest-tenured Brave, debuted in 2017. His 2026 option was for $7M but included a $4M buyout, making the additional monetary commitment only $3M. Coming off an injury-shortened season in 2024, Albies struggled through the first-half of 2025 before surging in July. He played in every game until suffering a fracture in his hand in late September.
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Earlier in the day, the team announced it had released pitcher Nathan Wiles who made his major league debut with Atlanta last season. Atlanta brought him in from the Tampa Bay Rays late in Spring Training. He made one appearance with Atlanta, allowing three runs, during several stints on the big league roster.
The Braves have to clear 40-man roster spots in advance of activating players off the 60-day IL on Thursday.
As for Albies, if healthy, he could set the Braves record for Opening Day starts by a second baseman, breaking a tie his hold with long-time Braves player and coach Glenn Hubbard. The Braves hold a $7M option on Albies for the 2027 season, which would only be his age 30 campaign.
