Over the last week, it was made clear to the Atlanta Braves that Mauricio Dubon was open to an extension with the team. This doesn't come as a surprise, considering how well Dubon has performed both on the infield and in left when the Braves have dealt with outfield injuries. It makes sense for both sides to consider a potential extension, as Dubon is scheduled to become a free agent at the end of the 2026 season and, at only 31, likely has at least a trio of productive seasons ahead.
With that said, it is easy to argue that Dubon isn't the only Braves piece deserving of an extension. Ozzie Albies is playing on a team option that can be exercised in the 2027 season, as well as ahead of the infielder hitting unrestricted free agency. Albies has had an incredible resurgence and left no question that the Braves need to consider their future at the position.
Going ahead and extending Albies beyond 2027 makes sense for both sides and takes away at least one middle infield question mark. The team already lacks clarity at shortstop with Ha-Seong Kim on an expiring deal and both Jorge Mateo and Dubon appearing to be short-term solutions.
Re-signing Albies is likely incredibly affordable as well when you consider how willing the infielder's team has been to work with Atlanta in past. There simply is nothing to be lost by re-signing a player who is one of the clear tone setters.
Braves Must Consider Extending Ozzie Albies During 2026 Season
What has been so impressive about Albies throughout the season has been a refusal to lose his aggressive nature at the plate, but reining it in. This is the best version of the second baseman and is deserving of an extension that gives the team a level of stability at the position beyond just the next two seasons.
For Albies, you're taking advantage of this year's return to form and giving yourself a chance to end your career with the Braves. It is a rarity to see players start and end their careers with one team, and Albies unquestionably has that chance with his current levels of production.
The only question remains whether the Braves are willing to come to the table or if the franchise is going to attempt to make Albies prove his consistent production for an additional year beyond the 2026 season. While this could be argued, the wiser approach remains locking down the infielder's future.
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