Braves Keep Ronald Acuña Jr. and Ozzie Albies as Atlanta Builds for 2027
The Atlanta Braves are keeping two of their biggest stars in place for another season. Atlanta has exercised its 2027 contract options on Ronald Acuña Jr. and Ozzie Albies, ensuring the longtime teammates will remain important pieces of the roster as the franchise looks to return to championship contention.
Acuña will earn $17 million next season, while Albies will make $7 million. Both decisions give Atlanta continuity with two players who have helped define the team’s recent success.
Acuña Gets Another Opportunity to Bounce Back
Acuña remains one of baseball’s most dangerous offensive talents when healthy. The 2023 National League MVP finished the 2026 regular season with a .255 batting average, 20 home runs, 55 RBIs and 21 stolen bases across 107 games.
Injuries limited his availability, as two left hamstring strains forced him to miss significant time. His postseason performance also left plenty to be desired, but Atlanta is betting that another healthy season can help him rediscover his elite form.
The Braves have good reason to believe Acuña can still be a difference-maker. His combination of power, speed and ability to change a game with one swing makes him difficult to replace.
Albies Remains an Important Piece
Albies will also return after playing all 162 regular-season games in 2026. The second baseman hit .237 with 22 home runs and 73 RBIs, providing durability and power in the middle of Atlanta’s lineup.
Although his batting average declined, keeping Albies for $7 million was an affordable decision for a player with his experience and history with the franchise.
The move also gives Atlanta another season to evaluate its long-term plans at second base. Albies is scheduled to become a free agent after 2027 unless he signs an extension.
Atlanta Looks Ahead
Keeping Acuña and Albies together gives the Braves a familiar foundation heading into next season. Atlanta will need more consistent production and improved health to make another deep postseason run.
With both stars returning, the Braves are giving themselves another opportunity to compete for a championship in 2027.
