In a surprising move that has left Braves fans and baseball insiders buzzing, the Atlanta Braves have declined their $8 million team option on veteran catcher Travis d’Arnaud for the 2024 season. The decision marks the end of a three-year stint for d’Arnaud in Atlanta, during which he played a pivotal role in the team’s success, including their 2021 World Series championship.
D’Arnaud, 35, has been a cornerstone of the Braves’ catching corps, pairing seamlessly with Sean Murphy this past season to provide depth and leadership both behind the plate and in the clubhouse. Known for his clutch hitting and defensive prowess, d’Arnaud batted .252 with 11 home runs and 40 RBIs in 2023, proving his value as a reliable veteran presence.
The decision to decline the option suggests the Braves may be looking to reallocate payroll or lean further into their youth movement. However, with d’Arnaud now hitting free agency, he’s expected to attract significant interest from teams seeking an experienced catcher with postseason pedigree.
“We’re grateful for everything Travis has contributed to this organization,” said Braves general manager Alex Anthopoulos in a brief statement. “These decisions are never easy, and we wish him nothing but the best moving forward
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