As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the Atlanta Braves have indicated they are open to offers for designated hitter Marcell Ozuna and relief pitcher Raisel Iglesias, according to reports from USA Today’s Bob Nightengale. This move signals a potential shift in the Braves’ roster as they look to address the challenges they have faced so far this season.
Nightengale noted,
“Atlanta are making DH Marcell Ozuna, reliever Raisel Iglesias and a few others available at the deadline, but they have no intention to trade any player under a multi-year contract, at least not until this winter,”
highlighting the Braves’ cautious approach to mid-season trades.
Current Performance and Contract Situations of Ozuna and Iglesias
Ozuna, a veteran with 10 years in the majors and a key player for Atlanta over the last five years, holds the rare ability to veto trades due to his accumulated service time. The 34-year-old’s performance has dipped in 2025, hitting .239 with 11 doubles, 13 home runs, and 42 RBIs over 89 games. Although he was an All-Star in 2024 and finished fourth in NL MVP voting, Ozuna has struggled to replicate that success this season. He is expected to enter free agency at the end of the current campaign.
Iglesias, 35, has also seen a decline in effectiveness. Once a crucial member of the Braves’ bullpen, he now carries a 4.42 ERA, his career worst for a full season, while allowing 37 hits in 36.2 innings this year. Like Ozuna, Iglesias is on track to become a free agent after the season concludes.
Braves’ 2025 Season Challenges and Possible Implications
Atlanta’s overall performance in the 2025 season has been underwhelming, as they currently rank fourth in the National League East with a 42-52 record, trailing the division leader by 12 games. This disappointing standing has increased the likelihood that the Braves may look to trade veteran players like Ozuna and Iglesias in an effort to reset the roster and build for the future.
Should a trade occur at the deadline, it could mark a significant transition for both players, who have been notable figures in Atlanta’s lineup and bullpen. The move may also serve as a precursor to more active roster changes for the Braves before or during the winter period.