The Braves are gearing up to increase their player payroll for the 2024 season, according to statements from president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos and Chairman Terry McGuirk.

 

Anthopoulos confirmed the team’s intention to bolster payroll during a media interaction, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to a continuous upward trajectory in payroll over the last three seasons. In the 2023 season, the Braves commenced with a player payroll around $203 million, as reported by Cot’s Baseball Contracts. Their luxury tax figure, based on the combined average annual values of team contracts, soared to an estimated $250 million.

 

Surpassing the $233 million base tax threshold, the Braves are poised to do so again in the upcoming season, with the first threshold expected to rise to $237 million.

Currently, the Braves have approximately $165 million in guaranteed salaries for the next season, and the arbitration class is projected to contribute an additional $25 million to $30 million. This places them within $15 million to $20 million of the previous season’s opening mark, offering room for further additions. Roster Resource forecasts their competitive balance tax (CBT) number slightly below $237 million.

 

Despite potential increased spending, the Braves are unlikely to dive into the top tier of the free-agent market, a strategy that aligns with Anthopoulos’ historical preferences. Instead, the team has been more aggressive in trades and contract extensions. With some financial flexibility, the Braves may engage more actively in the middle tier of free agents, particularly focusing on starting pitching—a potential priority for the team.

 

While the pitching rotation’s top three spots are occupied by Spencer Strider, Max Fried, and Charlie Morton, the remaining two positions are less certain. Prospects such as AJ Smith-Shawver and Hurston Waldrep, along with experienced players like Seth Lugo, Michael Wacha, and Jack Flaherty, could be potential targets.

In terms of position players, left field remains the only vacancy following the team’s decision not to exercise Eddie Rosario’s option. The Braves are contemplating both free-agent pursuits, such as Lourdes Gurriel Jr. or Joc Pederson, and internal options like Vaughn Grissom, who may see time in left field during spring training.