Ozzie Albies Rumors Swirl as Braves Weigh 2026 Option

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00:00Ozzie Albies rumors swirl as Braves weigh 2026 option.

00:06Rumors are swirling around Atlanta Braves second baseman Ozzie Albies

00:09after a strong 2025 finish made his $7 million club option seem like a lock.

00:15However, a wrist injury, the same issue that sidelined him in 2024,

00:20has reopened debate about his long-term role in Atlanta.

00:23If the Braves move in another direction before the 2026 season,

00:28the three-time All-Star would become one of the most intriguing infielders available,

00:33with three possible destinations.

00:36The Houston Astros seem like an odd fit,

00:38but second base is less certain as Jose Altuve's defense has declined with age.

00:44Houston has already eased Altuve into left field and designated hitter duties,

00:48creating a possible opening for Albies.

00:50His athleticism and offensive spark could stabilize an infield that's taken a defensive hit,

00:56and with Jordan Alvarez and Altuve anchoring the lineup,

00:59he could ease back as a switch-hitting spark plug.

01:03This scenario hinges on whether Glaber Torres re-signs in Detroit.

01:07After signing a one-year free agent deal last winter,

01:10he produced a 256 AVG, 745 OPS, 16 HR, and 74 RBI,

01:19making him a sought-after second baseman.

01:20If Torres departs, Albies could be a natural replacement,

01:24with comparable 2025 numbers and a stronger defensive track record when healthy,

01:30and the Tigers could let him rehab and return at his own pace

01:33while the young, balanced lineup carries the load.

01:36The Tampa Bay Rays are uncertain about exercising Brandon Lowe's $11.5 million club option.

01:42With Lowe now 31 and battling recurring back issues,

01:45new Rays ownership could refresh the roster with a younger,

01:48slightly cheaper option like Albies.

01:50Who turns 28 this offseason?

01:53Albies would bring energy,

01:55postseason experience,

01:56and name value to a club that maximizes undervalued talent.

02:01If healthy,

02:02his power-speed combo fits Tampa Bay's offensive blueprint.

02:06Despite the speculation,

02:07the Braves are still expected to pick up Albies' $7 million option for 2026,

02:11an easy value for a player of his caliber when healthy.

02:15But if concerns about his recurring wrist injury deepen,

02:18general manager Alex Anthopoulos could explore trade or non-tender options this winter.

02:24Either way,

02:24Albies' market would be strong,

02:26with several contenders ready to bet on a rebound.