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Atlanta Braves, Ozzie Albies Agree to Long-Term Extension

It appears the Atlanta Braves have locked up another young piece with a long-term deal as multiple outlets are reporting Ozzie Albies has agreed to terms.

The Atlanta Braves were quite serious about locking up their young talent early on. The team confirmed Thursday afternoon that second baseman Ozzie Albies has signed a seven-year extension through 2025. Atlanta also confirmed two club options for the 2026 and 2027 seasons.

Braves, Ozzie Albies Agree to Long-Term Extension

Albies debuted during the 2017 season and turned heads with 1.3 bWAR over 57 games at the major league level. He followed that up with an All-Star selection and 24 home runs as a 21-year-old in 2018. Albies did fade a bit down the stretch last season, finishing with a line of .261/.305/.452, 40 doubles, 105 runs scored, and 14 stolen bases. He also finished tied for fourth among second basemen in Major League Baseball with eight Defensive Runs Saved.

Albies did not let his slide to end 2018 affect his start to 2019 as he is on a tear to begin the season. He is slashing .364/.429/.500 through 11 games with four extra-base hits and five runs scored.

The Deal

News of Albies’ extension comes just over a week after the team announced a long-term deal for star outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr.. Not only is the duo well-known for their antics and close friendship, but Atlanta viewed them as cornerstone pieces to the lineup for years to come. Now the earliest either one can hit free agency is 2026, but obviously, the team is hoping the performance of each player warrants picking up the team options on both extensions.

More Deals Incoming?

Despite this bit of spending spree by the Braves, there does not appear to be any other players that may be extended early. Starting pitchers Mike Foltynewicz and Sean Newcomb could be next in line. However, it likely makes more sense for the Braves to play the arbitration game with them.

With Albies and Acuña, the Braves had a rare opportunity to sign two young stars to incredibly team-friendly deals. Both players have 20-20 (HRs-steals) potential, with Acuña a potential 30-30 candidate, that play plus defense. Securing their pricetags well before arbitration is an incredibly wise move for the organization.

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