Braves Exercise Albies Option, Decline Johnson and Kinley Deals

ATLANTA — BREAKING: The Atlanta Braves just announced they have exercised their option on second baseman Ozzie Albies while declining options on pitchers Pierce Johnson and Tyler Kinley. This decision significantly impacts the team’s roster as they prepare for the upcoming season.

The Braves confirmed they are picking up Albies’ salary of $7 million for the 2026 season, marking the final year of his $45 million deal over nine years. Despite a challenging season, where the 28-year-old posted a career-low batting average of .240 with 16 home runs and 74 RBIs, the Braves remain committed to him.

In a surprising move, Johnson will receive a $250,000 buyout instead of his $7 million salary, completing a two-year contract that guaranteed $14.25 million. The 34-year-old right-hander had a solid year, finishing with a record of 3-3 and a 3.05 ERA across 65 relief appearances, striking out 59 batters in 59 innings.

Meanwhile, Kinley, who turns 35 in January, will receive a $750,000 buyout rather than a $5 million salary. Acquired from the Colorado Rockies at the trade deadline, Kinley recorded a 6-3 record with a 3.96 ERA over 73 relief appearances, including an impressive 5-0 record and 0.72 ERA in 24 games for the Braves.

In addition to these changes, the Braves have confirmed their commitment to left-hander Chris Sale by activating his $18 million team option for 2026. This strategic decision underscores the Braves’ efforts to strengthen their pitching lineup as they navigate the 2025-26 offseason.

The implications of these moves are significant as the Braves look to bolster their roster for next season. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these decisions shape the team’s competitive edge moving forward.

Stay tuned for further updates as the Braves’ offseason strategy continues to unfold. These developments highlight the urgency of the upcoming free agency period and the team’s commitment to building a winning roster.