Braves Exercise Albies Option, Decline Johnson and Kinley Deals

UPDATE: The Atlanta Braves have just announced significant roster moves, exercising their option on second baseman Ozzie Albies while declining options on pitchers Pierce Johnson and Tyler Kinley on Thursday. This decision comes as the team prepares for the 2026 season and impacts their overall strategy heading into the offseason.

The Braves confirmed they are picking up Albies’ $7 million salary for what will be the final season of his $45 million contract over nine years. Despite a challenging season where the 28-year-old hit a career-low .240 with 16 home runs and 74 RBIs, the franchise remains committed to the talented second baseman.

In a surprising twist, the Braves will pay a $250,000 buyout to Johnson instead of his $7 million salary, finalizing a two-year contract that guaranteed him $14.25 million. The 34-year-old right-hander recorded a solid 3.05 ERA over 65 appearances, striking out 59 batters in 59 innings.

Similarly, Kinley will receive a $750,000 buyout rather than his $5 million salary. The 35-year-old pitcher, who was acquired from the Colorado Rockies during the trade deadline, had a respectable 3.96 ERA in 73 games, including an impressive 0.72 ERA in 24 appearances with the Braves.

These roster decisions reflect the Braves’ strategy to reshape their team as they look to improve for the upcoming season. The announcement also includes the Braves officially retaining left-hander Chris Sale by exercising his $18 million team option for 2026, a move that solidifies their pitching lineup moving forward.

Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the Braves continue to navigate the offseason. With major league free agency on the horizon, expect further updates on potential trades and signings that could reshape the team’s future.

Stay tuned for the latest developments as the Braves finalize their roster decisions and prepare for what lies ahead.