Here Is Atlanta Braves ‘Biggest Surprise of Offseason”

Alex Anthopoulos discovered a method to enhance the Atlanta Braves’ performance during the offseason and received substantial recognition for his efforts.

The Atlanta Braves had the option to maintain their roster status quo for 2024. With an impressive 104 wins, a dominant offense, and key players like Kyle Wright and Max Fried not playing full seasons, it would have been tempting to stick with the same lineup. Simply exercising leftfielder Eddie Rosario’s 2024 club option, relying on improved health in the pitching rotation, and aiming for another postseason run seemed like a viable plan.

However, president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos didn’t settle for the status quo. Instead, he took advantage of the financial uncertainties in the sport, particularly due to Diamond Sports Group’s bankruptcy proceedings, to execute a series of trades. These deals involved taking on unfavorable contracts in exchange for upgrading the team’s talent pool. Anthopoulos orchestrated moves to acquire Jarred Kelenic from the Seattle Mariners, Chris Sale from the Boston Red Sox, and Ray Kerr from the San Diego Padres, thereby bolstering the outfield, starting rotation, and bullpen.

The Braves’ proactive approach paid off, earning Anthopoulos recognition from MLB.com in their analysis of the biggest offseason surprises. Anthopoulos’s actions were highlighted, particularly in relation to the unexpected trades involving Sale and Mariners’ pitcher Robby Ray, who was in recovery from Tommy John surgery. The Braves further underscored their confidence in Anthopoulos by extending his contract through the 2031 season, a move that caught the attention of MLB.com writer Anthony Castrovince due to its extended duration.

Since joining the Braves before the 2018 season amidst challenging circumstances, Alex Anthopoulos has demonstrated exceptional skill in enhancing the team’s talented core and equipping it with the necessary components to contend for championships consistently. He oversees a roster featuring key players like Ozzie Albies (under team control until 2027), Ronald Acuña Jr. (until 2028), Sean Murphy, Spencer Strider (until 2029), Matt Olson (until 2030), Michael Harris II (until 2032), and Austin Riley (until 2033), all committed to the team’s future success.

Now, Anthopoulos finds himself committed as well, having inked a seven-year contract extension through 2031. While it was widely expected that Atlanta would retain Anthopoulos, there’s no known precedent for a front-office executive receiving such a lengthy contractual commitment. Similar to Counsell, Anthopoulos has established a new standard for individuals in his role.

Much of the discussion surrounding Anthopoulos’ contract extension has revolved around its duration. As Castrovince mentioned, it’s uncommon for MLB executives to sign deals spanning such a lengthy period. However, this extension not only demonstrates Anthopoulos’ commitment to Atlanta but also reflects the organization’s ability to negotiate effectively, even with their own executive.

Regardless, Braves supporters have reason to celebrate, knowing that Alex Anthopoulos will remain at the helm, further solidifying the team’s success for the foreseeable future.