2. Dansby Swanson - SS
Swanson opting for a pay day with Chicago over staying in Atlanta was completely understandable. The contract signed with the Cubs is life-changing money for the shortstop and his family. Still, Braves fans might be a bit salty about parting ways with Swanson with the team's current lack of options. Orlando Arcia vs. Nick Allen is far from the predictable stability Swanson brought in his seven seasons with Atlanta.
Another piece of the World Series core the team has been forced to move off of due to budget concerns. Concerns that appear well-founded with Swanson are off to an underwhelming start at the plate. When you look at Swanson's current production and combine the numbers of Arcia and Allen, Atlanta fans will feel far better.
The Cubs are paying Swanson top dollar, and thus far, it has been for middling production. Yes, you must factor in the great defense, but this hardlt excuses the contract Swanson is playing on in comparison to the lack of consistent offensive output. The early start for the shortstop at the plate is another example of this.
3. Ramon Laureano - OF
Laureano was one of the best stories of Atlanta's 2024 season in what was a year of frustration. The Braves attempted to fix their outfield with Jarred Kelenic, Adam Duvall, Eddie Rosario, and even a reunion with Jorge Soler. None of these options lived up to expectations and opened the door for the surprise Laureano surge.
The outfielder found a starting role in Atlanta and seemed an obvious inclusion on the 2025 roster. Whether as the 4th outfielder or in a starting role until Ronald Acuna Jr.'s return. Atlanta wouldn't take this path moving on, allowing the veteran to land in Baltimore.
Early results show that perhaps the Braves made the right choice with the outfielder struggling offensively. Nothing about his early performance would have helped Atlanta get off to a better start.