The Atlanta Braves made headlines by securing another crucial member of their team with a significant contract extension. Ozzie Albies, a talented superstar, inked a seven-year deal worth $35 million, demonstrating the Braves’ commitment to fortifying their core roster. Not content with just this agreement, the Braves included two team options valued at $7 million annually, along with a $4 million buyout clause, potentially extending the contract to nine years and $45 million.
This contract surpasses the benchmark set by Evan Longoria’s long-term deal, which was previously considered the epitome of team-friendly value. Longoria’s contract, signed early in his rookie season, amounted to six years and $17.6 million, featuring three team option years. While Albies’ guaranteed earnings may be slightly lower, the inclusion of team options makes the deal even more favorable for the Braves. The team options in Longoria’s contract were more lucrative, ranging from $7.5 million to $11.5 million, compared to Albies’ $7 million per year. Despite the variance in guaranteed dollars, Albies’ contract covers potentially four of his free agent years for a fraction of what he could command in the open market.
Furthermore, Albies’ track record in the majors, including a standout star-level season, adds further weight to the Braves’ investment in his future. Unlike Longoria, who was yet to establish himself in the league when he signed his extension, Albies brings a proven level of performance and reliability to the table.
Overall, the Braves’ decision to secure Albies’ services for the long term reflects their strategic approach to building a competitive and sustainable team. By locking in key players like Albies with favorable contract terms, the Braves position themselves for continued success on the field while ensuring financial flexibility for future roster moves.
