The Braves already have a solid core of proven All-Star level talent locked up

The goal for Alex Anthopoulos and his group as they head into the offseason is to strengthen the Atlanta Braves roster, which is currently strong. Although the Braves already have a stable core of players with All-Star caliber contracts signed, the roster still has room for improvement.

When looking to strengthen the Braves roster, Anthopoulos and his group have a number of options at their disposal. He might use some of the prospects the Braves have on the farm and search for trade partners.

Alternatively, as Spencer Schwellenbach did this year, Anthopoulos may rely on some of those prospects to make an impact the next season. But most likely, AA enters the free agent market to bolster the Braves team for 2025. Regarding Anthopoulos’ journey to free agency, supporters received some fantastic news a few days ago: he will have spending money.

Anthopoulos expects payroll to rise in 2025

A few days ago, during his farewell interviews with the media, Anthopoulos shared some important details on the Braves offseason. One of the most important things to remember from his interview was that he expected payroll to expand in 2025.

For Braves supporters, who have frequently doubted that the front staff would fork over the cash for the greatest players, this is a huge breath of relief. But in recent years, the front management has shown a strong willingness to invest the capital required to develop a competitive baseball team.

The Braves’ salary was really projected to be $223 million as of 2024. Anthopoulos said after last year’s trade deadline that Atlanta’s luxury tax total was barely below the $277 million mark (the third tier of penalties).

For the Braves, who have a sizable amount of money coming off the books in 2025, this is excellent news. Charlie Morton and Max Fried, two costly starters, will be available as free agents this offseason. The crucial aspect of the summer will be how the Braves use these resources.

Antipholos, predictably, was not prepared to provide a precise figure about the anticipated payroll for 2025. He acknowledged that payroll isn’t going to decrease, though. Fans should have enough faith in Anthopoulos to accomplish what it takes to develop a championship challenger in 2025 based only on that statement.