The Atlanta Braves made their first big addition of the offseason, signing veteran outfielder Mike Yastrzemski to a two-year deal worth $23 million, according to NY Post's Jon Heyman. It is a reasonable number for a left-handed hitter that will be great outfield depth as well as an option at designated hitter, as it appears Atlanta is going to be content to ride with the hot hand.
Yastrzemski is a great addition and hopefully just the start of what is a pivotal 2025-26 offseason. The Braves are still expected to add to the bullpen, rotation, and look at finding a starter at the shortstop position.
For Yastrezemski, this is the perfect situation to step into in what is by far the most talented lineup the veteran has been a part of in his career. What makes the situation ideal is the fact that the left-handed hitter can be used primarily as a matchup against right-handed starters with Atlanta. Looking at the outfielder's split, it becomes clear that he has been an above-average hitter against right-handers but is next to helpless against left-handed matchups.
This paints the picture as to how the Braves are going to utilize Yastrzemski and when the outfielder will find himself on the bench. It is a solid first offseason signing for a front office who shouldn't be close to done based on the obvious remaining needs of the roster.
Mike Yastrzemski Gives Braves a Platoon Option
The move might not raise many eyebrows, but it is incredibly important in the fact that it is a winning move from a front office that could've shopped in the bargain aisles yet again. One of the biggest issues for Atlanta's roster last season was a complete lack of depth at nearly every position. Signing Yastrzemski signals that this is no longer the acceptable standard, as he has experience playing all three outfield spots.
Having 35-year-old veteran on the roster allows you to turn to an experienced starter if any of your trio of outfielders were to go down. Yastrzemski offers a solid power option as well that you can plug into the designated hitter role as needed. With this in mind, Atlanta spending $23 million on a position that simply could've gone overlooked signals that they realize the gravity of last season's failures and are going to make a clear push to contend.
This is great news for a fan base badly in need of a splashy offseason after watching a dumpster fire for a 2025 season. It is a signing as well that is a win for both sides, with Yastrzemski being set up in the perfect lineup in a situation with fair expectations, understanding the limitations, and plugging the left-handed hitter into what will be a perfect role.
Obviously, success is never guaranteed at the MLB level; however, it's safe to say the Braves' early offseason action is putting them in a good spot to succeed next year.