Atlanta Braves catcher and 2021 World Series champion Travis d’Arnaud has declined the team’s $8 million option and will test free agency. d’Arnaud is coming off a 2024 season where he sported a .238 batting average, 14 home runs, 48 RBIs, and a .738 OPS. In addition, the Braves also exercised designated hitter Marcell Ozuna‘s option for the 2025 season and declined the option on right-handed pitcher Luke Jackson. As well as reinstated outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr, left-handed pitchers Ray Kerr and Angel Perdomo, and right-handed pitchers Spencer Strider and Huascar from the 60-day injury list.
The Atlanta Braves have declined their $8 million club option on catcher Travis d’Arnaud, sources tell ESPN. He is now a free agent.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) November 4, 2024
Braves Silver Slugger Tests Free Agency
d’Arnaud and Free Agency
Travis will turn 36 in February and sported a 63 wRC+ in the last two months with a 35% K rate and an 85 wRC+ after May 1. The Braves’ top prospect is a catcher, and it frees up $8M. Pointing as to why the Braves decided to decline his option. But the Braves are not closing the door on re-signing the 35-year-old catcher as a free agent. The Braves’ focus now is that they need payroll flexibility.
But if d’Arnaud decides to explore other options and doesn’t stay with the Braves, he has much to offer other teams looking to save on some bank. d’Arnaud is a 12-year veteran with a 103 OPS+ a, 0.4 barrel percentage, and a .438xSLG who has been highlighted for his strong efforts with blocking and stealing as a catcher. Travis will be a cheap catcher available on the market for several teams to target. While d’Arnuad does have a baseball background that carries forward an appeal to pick up on the trade market, his past season with the Braves didn’t showcase the clutch factor.
The Braves moving forward with him and giving him the freedom to explore other teams is a smart choice. Considering that the Braves will be getting back many talented players, such as Ozuna. Travis has already come up as a possible fit with the New York Mets
Main Photo Credits: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
