End of the Road for Two Braves Veterans
ATLANTA, GA — The Atlanta Braves, perennial contenders and National League powerhouses, are facing a shift in their clubhouse dynamic with the confirmed departures of two notable players: Marcell Ozuna and Tyler Matzek. Both are leaving the organization for good, signaling a new chapter for a team balancing its championship aspirations with long-term sustainability.
Ozuna, a veteran slugger who had one of the most controversial yet productive runs in Atlanta, is reportedly being released following internal evaluations and a slow start to the 2025 season. Meanwhile, Matzek, a key bullpen arm during the Braves’ 2021 World Series run, will not return after failing to regain form post-injury.
“We appreciate everything both players have contributed to this organization,” said Braves President of Baseball Operations Alex Anthopoulos in a statement. “These decisions are never easy, especially with players who’ve helped bring championship-level baseball to Atlanta.”
Their departures aren’t just transactions—they’re emotional farewells that touch on past glory, recent struggles, and the evolution of the roster.
Ozuna’s Exit – A Complicated Legacy
Marcell Ozuna, who joined the Braves in 2020 and led the National League in home runs and RBIs that year, leaves behind a mixed legacy. His bat was undeniably impactful during multiple playoff pushes, but off-field issues and defensive liability in the outfield clouded his tenure.
Despite a bounce-back season in 2023, Ozuna’s bat cooled significantly in 2025. Through 50 games, he was batting just .207 with 5 home runs and a .289 on-base percentage. Fans and analysts noted his diminishing bat speed and struggles against high-velocity pitching.
“Marcell gave us some big moments,” said Braves manager Brian Snitker. “But at some point, the numbers and roster fit have to align.”
Additionally, the Braves are turning toward a youth movement in the outfield. With Jarred Kelenic and Jesse Franklin V showing promise, the front office decided to cut ties and free up roster space rather than keep Ozuna in a limited DH role.
Though his exit may not come as a shock, it still marks the end of a five-year tenure filled with ups, downs, and headlines.
Tyler Matzek, meanwhile, represented grit and redemption during his rise. After battling the yips and being out of MLB for years, Matzek became a postseason hero in 2021 with lights-out relief performances during the Braves’ title run.
Matzek’s Farewell – From Hero to Hurt
Matzek’s fall wasn’t due to performance as much as health. After undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2023, he missed nearly two full seasons and struggled in his rehab appearances in Triple-A Gwinnett earlier this year. While the Braves were hopeful for a comeback, recurring elbow discomfort and decreased velocity limited his progress.
At 34, Matzek and the organization mutually agreed to part ways, with reports suggesting he’s considering retirement or a transition into coaching.
“Tyler was one of the gutsiest pitchers I’ve ever managed,” Snitker said. “He gave us unforgettable moments and we’ll always be thankful for that.”
His departure closes the book on one of the most inspiring stories in recent Braves history — from out of the league to playoff hero to clubhouse leader.
What This Means for the Braves
The exit of both Ozuna and Matzek opens roster spots and signals a continued focus on younger, more versatile talent. The Braves are expected to elevate minor leaguers like AJ Smith-Shawver, Forrest Wall, and Ignacio Alvarez into more prominent roles as they attempt to stay atop the National League standings.
The front office is also likely freeing up payroll flexibility ahead of the trade deadline. Though Atlanta’s core remains intact — with Ronald Acuña Jr., Matt Olson, Austin Riley, and Spencer Strider — the team understands that staying competitive in October requires constant evolution.
Final Thought: The Atlanta Braves are no strangers to making bold decisions in pursuit of excellence. Saying goodbye to Marcell Ozuna and Tyler Matzek wasn’t easy — but it may be necessary for what’s next.
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