The discussion around Marcell Ozuna being a waiver candidate for the Atlanta Braves became a major talking point during the 2025 MLB season. Ozuna had been a key power hitter for the Braves in previous years, but several factors led to speculation that the team might move on from him.
Eventually, Ozuna’s tenure with the Braves came to an end, and by 2026 he joined the Pittsburgh Pirates on a one-year contract worth $12 million. The situation raised many questions among baseball fans about why the Braves considered placing him on waivers and how the team planned to adjust their roster moving forward.
This article explains the reasons behind the waiver speculation, Ozuna’s performance, and the Braves’ roster strategy.
Who Is Marcell Ozuna?
Marcell Ozuna is a Major League Baseball outfielder and designated hitter (DH) known for his power hitting and run production.
During his career, Ozuna has played for several MLB teams including:
- Miami Marlins
- St. Louis Cardinals
- Atlanta Braves
With the Braves, he became an important part of the team’s lineup, particularly during seasons when he delivered strong offensive performances.
Why Was Marcell Ozuna a Waiver Candidate?
The speculation about Ozuna being placed on waivers during the 2025 MLB season was driven by multiple factors.
1. Performance Decline
One of the biggest reasons was a drop in performance.
Ozuna had strong power numbers in previous seasons:
- 2023: 40 home runs
- 2024: 39 home runs
However, his performance declined in 2025, where he hit:
- 21 home runs
- .232 batting average
This decrease in production raised concerns about his long-term role on the team.
2. Salary Considerations
Ozuna’s salary was another factor.
The Braves were reportedly looking for ways to improve financial flexibility for the future. Moving Ozuna could help the team manage payroll and potentially invest in younger talent or other roster needs.
Teams often consider waivers as a way to clear salary space or open roster spots.
3. Roster Changes and Youth Movement
Atlanta also began focusing more on younger players and roster flexibility.
The Braves’ catching duo Sean Murphy and Drake Baldwin were expected to rotate into the designated hitter (DH) role. This strategy allowed the team to manage player workloads and create opportunities for developing talent.
Because Ozuna primarily played as a DH, the team needed to reconsider how that position would be used moving forward.
Atlanta Braves’ 2026 Designated Hitter Strategy
After Ozuna’s departure, the Braves adjusted their lineup strategy.
Rotating Catchers at DH
Atlanta planned to use Sean Murphy and Drake Baldwin in a rotation at the DH position. This allows catchers to rest from defensive duties while still contributing offensively.
Veteran Depth Additions
The Braves also added outfielder Mike Yastrzemski to provide additional power and lineup depth.
This move helped the team balance experience with flexibility in the batting order.
Rest for Key Players
Another advantage of the rotating DH strategy is that star players like:
- Ronald Acuña Jr.
- Austin Riley
can occasionally move into the DH role to reduce defensive fatigue while staying active offensively.
Ozuna’s Move to the Pittsburgh Pirates
Following the 2025 season, Marcell Ozuna became a free agent.
In February 2026, he signed a one-year contract worth $12 million with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The deal includes:
- $10.5 million base salary
- $1.5 million buyout
- $16 million mutual option for 2027
This move gives Ozuna an opportunity to revitalize his career with a new team.
Impact on the Braves
Ozuna’s departure signals a shift in the Braves’ roster strategy.
Rather than relying on a single designated hitter, Atlanta is focusing on lineup flexibility and player rotation.
This approach helps the team:
- reduce injury risk
- give players rest
- create opportunities for younger talent
Such roster strategies are becoming increasingly common in modern baseball.
Conclusion
Marcell Ozuna becoming a waiver candidate for the Atlanta Braves was the result of several factors, including performance decline, salary considerations, and roster strategy changes.
Although Ozuna had strong seasons with Atlanta, the team ultimately decided to move in a different direction. His move to the Pittsburgh Pirates provides a fresh opportunity to continue his career while the Braves adjust their lineup with a more flexible DH strategy.
The situation highlights how MLB teams constantly evaluate performance, finances, and roster balance when making decisions about veteran players.
FAQs
Why was Marcell Ozuna considered a waiver candidate?
He was considered due to declining performance, salary considerations, and roster restructuring by the Braves.
Which team did Marcell Ozuna join in 2026?
He signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates on a one-year contract.
What was Ozuna’s contract value with the Pirates?
His deal is worth $12 million for the 2026 season.
Who will replace Ozuna as the Braves’ designated hitter?
The Braves plan to rotate Sean Murphy and Drake Baldwin in the DH role.
Did Ozuna have good seasons with the Braves?
Yes, he hit 40 home runs in 2023 and 39 in 2024, making him one of the team’s key power hitters during those seasons.
