The Atlanta Braves announced a significant roster decision Sunday, releasing veteran infielder and 2023 All-Star Orlando Arcia, as reported by Grant McAuley of 92.9 The Game.
This move follows the team’s recent release of ex-All-Star Garrett Cooper, signaling a shift in roster strategy amid the 2025 season.
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Arcia, 30, joined the Braves midway through the 2021 season and emerged as a key contributor, earning his first All-Star nod in 2023 with a .264/.321/.420 slash line and a .741 OPS. However, his performance dipped sharply this year, batting just .194 with a .445 OPS across 14 games, prompting Atlanta to cut ties.
With nine seasons of MLB experience since his 2016 debut, Arcia brings defensive flexibility, having logged time at shortstop, second base, third base, and the outfield. His veteran presence and versatility could attract interest from clubs seeking infield depth, despite his early-season struggles.
The Braves, meanwhile, are showing signs of resurgence after a sluggish start, improving to 25-27 (.481) and narrowing their gap to a two-game deficit below .500.
The return of reigning NL MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. from injury has further bolstered the lineup, fueling hopes for a postseason push.
Atlanta’s momentum hit a snag Sunday with a 5-3 loss to the San Diego Padres. The team now eyes a critical three-game series against the Philadelphia Phillies, starting Tuesday at 6:45 PM EST, as they aim to climb the NL East standings.
