Braves' $7M 3-time All-Star fan favorite set to make franchise history on Opening Day

The biggest question mark during the 2025 season for the Atlanta Braves was whether Ozzie Albies would be brought back. Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos did everything he could to avoid giving a definitive answer

“With all these options (on players), we always make the decision at the end of the year — you have five days after the World Series, and that’s when you make the decision. It’s just, things can happen, things change. You always wait,” Anthopoulos said.

Albies has been a staple in the Braves system for almost a decade, creating a strong bond with the organization. By the end of the season, it was quickly determined that the Braves would bring Albies back for the final year of his contract.

“The Braves are going to pick up their club option on infielder Ozzie Albies. The club hasn’t announced the decision yet, but president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos confirmed the move in a radio appearance, per Mark Zinno of 92.9 The Game,” MLB Trade Rumors’ Steve Adams wrote.

With Opening Day against the Kansas City Royals on Friday, Albies looks poised to set the franchise record for most Opening Day starts by an Atlanta second baseman.

“Ozzie Albies is set to make his franchise-high ninth Opening Day start as a second baseman for the Braves tomorrow. Glenn Hubbard is the only other player in franchise history to make at least eight OD starts at second base,” Braves reporter Mark Bowman wrote.

For Albies, this is a well-deserved accomplishment, especially considering how injuries have impacted his career. The Braves will rely heavily on their offense during the first half of the season, which is where Albies thrives when healthy.

Atlanta still has some question marks surrounding the pitching staff, but if the offense performs at a high level, it may not matter. Albies taking the field Friday will further cement his place in Braves history.

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