Time is Running Out for These 3 Braves Players
The Atlanta Braves are entering a critical phase of the 2025 season. After securing a much-needed series win over the Milwaukee Brewers, they now face the Colorado Rockies — a team that could finish the season with one of the worst records ever. Still, if the Braves truly want to regain momentum, they’ll need to make some difficult roster decisions quickly.
While massive shakeups are unlikely this deep into the season — especially with several players locked into long-term deals and limited trade opportunities — there are still a few spots on the active roster that clearly need an overhaul.
These are the players Atlanta needs to move on from by the end of June:
Alex Verdugo
Though Verdugo showed flashes of potential after being called up, his impact has fizzled out. In May, he managed just a .547 OPS over 25 games, and things haven’t improved — he’s collected only three hits so far in June.
With Jurickson Profar expected to return soon (barring a minor league rehab stint), Verdugo should be the odd man out. At this point, he’s just occupying a valuable roster spot that could be better used.
Rafael Montero
Montero has been a source of frustration for Braves fans. While his 4.00 ERA over 10 appearances last month seems acceptable, his outings have been anything but smooth — mostly due to his persistent control issues.
He gave up three runs during one of Atlanta’s worst series losses this year, against Arizona, and has simply become too unreliable. Money aside, the Braves would be better served finding a more dependable right-handed reliever via trade or free agency. Montero is no longer a viable option late in games.
Nick Allen
Allen’s defensive skills at shortstop have been outstanding — some of the best in the league since he took over from Orlando Arcia. But his offensive production has been a major letdown.
Despite his elite defense, he’s only been worth 0.6 rWAR this season because he offers next to nothing at the plate. His .578 OPS and 65 OPS+ are numbers too low to ignore. As good as his glove is, the Braves need more offensive contribution from that position. Allen hasn’t provided it.
Bottom Line:
The Braves can’t afford to let underperformance linger if they want to stay in playoff contention. Verdugo, Montero, and Allen may have had their moments, but their time in Atlanta needs to come to an end — and soon.
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