Atlanta Braves fans have been left with little better to do than check in on former players in an attempt to ease the frustration of the 2025 season. As things continue to spiral out of control, it seems fitting that it was a former Brave in Jorge Soler who put an exclamation point on the team's recent struggles.
Soler isn't the only former Atlanta outfielder who found a new landing spot, as Sam Hilliard stuck with the Rockies this offseason. It is where Hilliard started his career before signing with the Braves.
If the name doesn't sound familiar it is likely due to the fact that the outfielder spent most of his time in Atlanta on the injured list. A heel injury prevented him from making the team's lineup and continued to surface throughout his time with the organization.
Unfortunately, the outfielder's recent struggles have resurfaced again, resulting in Hilliard being designated for assignment this week.
UPDATE: The Rockies have officially confirmed the moves to call up OF Yanquiel Fernandez and C Austin Nola.
— DNVR Rockies (@DNVR_Rockies) July 1, 2025
Sam Hilliard has been DFA’d and Braxton Fulford has been optioned to Triple-A. pic.twitter.com/K4awBjQD9h
Former Braves' Outfielder Sam Hilliard Hit Another Setback
If the outfielder clears waivers, he has an interesting choice to make: whether to stay with Colorado or attempt to find another landing spot. If you're unable to stick in the Rockies' lineup this season, it isn't exactly an indicator of other teams having any interest. Being unable to stay on the roster of the worst team in the league is just a bit of a red flag.
For Hilliard, it is another frustrating setback in what has been an up-and-down career. There simply isn't one clear fit left at the Major League level with the current lack of production. It seems that Hilliard's best path is remaining with the Rockies and hoping to earn another chance.
Clearing waivers and accepting his assignment is the next step for the outfielder to remain with the franchise. It seems doubtful any team claims a player who has offered little production and appears to have limited upside moving forward.