The Atlanta Braves weren’t supposed to be here—10 games under .500 in mid-June, losing 15 of 19 and grasping for answers in a season that was supposed to be a coronation. But according to MLB insider Ken Rosenthal, what’s happening isn’t just unexpected—it’s “borderline shocking.”
Rosenthal didn’t hold back on his Fair Territory podcast this week, admitting he had Atlanta back in the World Series this year. “They were that good,” he said. On paper, the Braves checked all the boxes: elite talent, postseason pedigree, and a front office praised for locking down young stars. But the reality is far grimmer—and the reasons are starting to pile up.
A Leadership Void That’s Still Lingering
One of Rosenthal’s most notable concerns is the leadership vacuum created by the departures of Freddie Freeman, Dansby Swanson, and Max Fried. Those clubhouse voices helped define Atlanta’s identity, and their absence may be part of why the team has struggled to regain its footing through adversity.
“It changes the dynamic,” Rosenthal said. That change appears to be translating into more than just vibes—it’s bleeding into the win-loss column.
An Offseason Full of Whiffs
While the Braves have long been praised for their efficient roster construction, Rosenthal called out what many fans have been whispering for weeks: the offseason wasn’t good enough. “They had a bad offseason,” he said, noting how the bullpen was never fully reinforced after the departure of A.J. Minter and injuries to Joe Jiménez.
Rumored pursuits of relievers like Jeff Hoffman and Tanner Scott fizzled out. Now, Atlanta’s patchwork pen is being exposed as overtaxed and underwhelming.
The Offense Is MIA
Tuesday’s 4–1 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers served as another example of how far this offense has fallen. The Braves have scored three or fewer runs in 11 of their last 19 games, and they’ve only won two of those contests. Their 28–38 record is now their worst mark of the season, and they haven’t won a series since May 18.
Ronald Acuña Jr. chipped in with an RBI single, but he can’t carry this lineup alone. Matt Olson, Austin Riley, and Michael Harris II have all underperformed. And despite a decent showing from starter Grant Holmes, who struck out nine, the bats once again failed to capitalize.
Bo Bichette? Maybe. Nacho Alvarez? Sooner.
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The Braves are reportedly exploring ways to shake things up. Steven Teal of House That Hank Built floated Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette as a potential trade target. Bichette is a free agent after this season and could represent both a short-term fix and long-term solution for a position that’s been a revolving door since Swanson’s exit.
Meanwhile, Triple-A shortstop Nacho Alvarez is working his way back from a wrist injury and could provide a spark. The Braves’ No. 3 prospect has shown promise in the minors, and with Luke Williams and Nick Allen failing to stabilize the position, Alvarez could get a look sooner rather than later.
No, Snitker’s Not Getting Fired
One thing Rosenthal made clear: Brian Snitker’s job isn’t in danger. Despite mounting frustration on social media, the 68-year-old manager still has the full backing of the organization. The Braves have too much respect for what he’s accomplished to pull the plug now.
The Clock Is Ticking
With the trade deadline just weeks away, Atlanta must decide: reload or regroup? If they still believe a playoff run is possible, reinforcements are a must. If not, the focus shifts to 2026—and potentially moving players like Ozzie Albies, Raisel Iglesias, or others to restock the farm.
The Braves entered 2025 thinking they were World Series-bound. Instead, they’re just trying to stop the bleeding. As Rosenthal put it, no one saw this coming.
Braves’ Meltdown Is ‘Borderline Shocking,’ Says MLB Insider