Marcell Ozuna Braves trade odds rise to 70% amid speculations about lineup changes and managerial decisions.
Marcell Ozuna’s future with the Atlanta Braves is increasingly uncertain as trade rumors intensify, with analysts assigning a 70 percent chance he will be traded before the MLB deadline on August 1. The designated hitter, known as “the Big Bear,” emerges as one of the most probable players to change teams as the Braves consider their options.
Manager Brian Snitker’s Lineup Changes Indicate Diminished Role for Ozuna
The possibility of Ozuna’s exit rose sharply following recent lineup decisions by Braves manager Brian Snitker. Over the weekend, Snitker announced plans to rotate Sean Murphy and Drake Baldwin at catcher and designated hitter positions, which effectively excludes Ozuna from the starting lineup. This decision, communicated broadly to the entire team rather than directly to Ozuna, has drawn significant attention and criticism.
Mark Bowman, the Braves’ beat writer for MLB.com, shared Snitker’s blunt rationale, noting that
“the most productive players will be in the lineup.”
—Mark Bowman, Braves Beat Writer, MLB.com
Fans expressed frustration with the timing and manner of this message, some suggesting that Ozuna deserved more direct communication about his status. Critiques on social media called the approach weak and lamented the treatment of Ozuna despite his status as one of the team’s top hitters in recent years.
One fan commented,
“That’s weak imo. Talk to the man directly since it’s his issue. Then can send a broader message to the team.”
Another added,
“Treating the player who’s been our best hitter for the last three years like this is just another move in the unfortunate saga of the team treating vets like crap.”
Snitker Confirms Ozuna’s Playing Time Will Likely Be Limited
Barrett Sallee, a host on the Atlanta Braves Radio Network, reported that Snitker reaffirmed his position about Ozuna’s role during a Sunday interview. Snitker indicated that if Ozuna remains with the Braves, his appearances will be infrequent. Sallee quoted Snitker saying,
Image of: Marcell Ozuna
“If he’s going to be here, he’s going to play every now and then.”
This season has posed significant challenges for Ozuna, now in his sixth year with Atlanta. His June batting statistics dropped to a .188/.263/.287 slash line, including only two home runs and 16 RBIs, with July showing a further decline to a .139 average. Ozuna has acknowledged dealing with a sore hip that affected his confidence and timing at the plate.
Ozuna expressed optimism about recovering his form, stating,
“Now I feel fantastic. I just lost my confidence at the plate. I just lost my timing, and that’s what I’ve been battling.”
Despite these difficulties, Ozuna remains hopeful he can regain the level of production seen in previous seasons.
Contract Status and Potential Trade Destinations
Currently, Ozuna is finishing the final year of a four-year, $65 million contract. While his performance this season has been disappointing compared to prior years, he had an excellent 2024 campaign, posting a .302 batting average, hitting 39 home runs, and driving in 104 runs, which earned him a fourth-place finish in the National League MVP voting.
As the trade deadline nears, analysts Kiley McDaniel and Jeff Passan have identified multiple teams as potential buyers interested in acquiring Ozuna. These include the San Diego Padres, Seattle Mariners, Texas Rangers, Detroit Tigers, and San Francisco Giants. Ozuna’s status as a rental player makes him an attractive option for clubs seeking to enhance their offense without giving up top-tier prospects.
Given his ability to contribute as a designated hitter, Ozuna could be secured for a moderate prospect, providing a boost to teams aiming to improve their lineups in the second half of the season.
Implications for the Braves and Ozuna’s Career
The developments surrounding Marcell Ozuna signal a significant turning point for both the player and the Braves organization. If traded, the Braves will part with a veteran who has contributed substantially to their lineup in recent years, but whose current form and hip injury have reduced his impact. For Ozuna, landing with a new team could offer a chance to revive his career.
The Braves’ management appears poised to prioritize roster efficiency and production as they approach the postseason. The evolving situation will be closely watched by fans, analysts, and other MLB teams ahead of the August 1 deadline, with many awaiting confirmation of a potential deal that would reshape Atlanta’s lineup planning for the remainder of the year.
