Braves linked to $6M rival after career-best year, potential Michael Harris-Jurickson Profar platoon

The Atlanta Braves are undergoing a major change this offseason at the manager position, and it’s been nearly a month since Brian Snitker announced he wouldn’t be returning in 2026. Now, the top candidate to replace him has seemingly come out of left field.

“My guess is the delay in Braves hiring a manager has less to do with casting a wide net than with waiting for Danny Lehmann to finish bench-coaching w/ the Dodgers in the WS. I think he’s the one they want, and it would signal a commitment to cutting-edge analytics and process,” The Athletic’s David O’Brien wrote.

There will also be some roster additions this offseason, and one possible target is free-agent outfielder Harrison Bader.

“Bader is fresh off the best offensive season of his career, hitting .277 with a .796 OPS. He’s long been known for his elite defense, and now that his bat has caught up, he should land a multi-year deal. His strong career splits against lefties would give the Braves some flexibility with their outfield and DH platoons,” Sports Talk ATL’s Chase Irle wrote.

Bringing in Bader would make things interesting, especially considering the situation that unfolded with Jurickson Profar last season. At worst, Bader could serve as a platoon option for Michael Harris when he struggles.

“Atlanta keeping Profar doesn't change the fact that the outfielder will still be on thin ice. The veteran is going to need more than a handful of nice moments to win back a frustrated fan base. It will take a solid season of production and help push the franchise back into the postseason chase. Until the outfielder is traded or this happens, there is still going to be a level of frustration with the poor choice Profar made. Something that will continue to define the outfielder's time in Atlanta for the foreseeable future,” ATL All Day’s Nick Halden wrote.

Bader would be a strong addition. He has consistently helped every team he’s played for and would likely continue doing so in Atlanta.

There’s no time like the present for the Braves — their window for winning another World Series is open right now. Essentially, it’s now or never for Atlanta.

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