Marcell Ozuna became a waiver candidate because his $16 million salary, DH-only limitations, age-35 season, and dip in 2025 production (.232/.355/.400, 21 HR) forced the Atlanta Braves to weigh roster flexibility and finances after a 76–86 miss of the playoffs; although waivers can shift contracts to claiming teams or lead to release/outright options, Ozuna’s 10-and-5 rights gave him veto power over trades, stalling deadline movement and making waivers an unlikely salary escape, especially given the low odds another club would assume the full deal. Atlanta ultimately moved on to open the DH for catcher rotations (Sean Murphy/Drake Baldwin), reallocate payroll, and prioritize versatility, letting Ozuna’s contract expire rather than forcing a costly outcome. On February 8, 2026, Ozuna signed a one-year, $12 million pact (with a 2027 mutual option) with the offense-starved Pittsburgh Pirates, whose 2025 lineup ranked last in MLB power and OPS and needed right-handed balance; even in a “down” year, Ozuna’s power would have led Pittsburgh, and the Pirates are betting his decline was injury-related, slotting him into a lineup around Oneil Cruz, Bryan Reynolds, and reigning NL Cy Young winner Paul Skenes. Meanwhile, the Braves enter 2026 with renewed flexibility, a rotating DH, and the return of Ronald Acuña Jr., aiming to redirect savings toward pitching and depth while balancing short-term output against long-term sustainability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Marcell Ozuna considered a waiver candidate? His large contract ($16 million in 2025), declining performance, and DH-only defensive limitations made him a candidate for salary shedding and roster flexibility moves.
What are 10-and-5 rights? An MLB rule giving players with 10 years of service and five consecutive years with one team the ability to veto any trade. Ozuna held these rights with the Braves.
Did the Braves place Ozuna on waivers? No. His contract expired after 2025, and he became a free agent, signing with Pittsburgh in February 2026.
What contract did Ozuna sign with the Pirates? One year, $12 million with $10.5 million in 2026 salary plus a $16 million mutual option for 2027 featuring a $1.5 million buyout.
How does Ozuna’s departure affect the Braves? They’ll rotate catchers Murphy and Baldwin through DH, freeing $16 million in payroll for other roster needs.
Could Ozuna bounce back with Pittsburgh? Possibly. He ranked ninth in MLB with 100 home runs from 2023-2024, and his 2025 decline coincided with a hip injury.
Conclusion
The Braves Marcell Ozuna waiver candidate discussion revealed how contending organizations evaluate total organizational footprint—weighing production against cost, flexibility against specialization, and short-term wins against long-term sustainability. Ozuna’s departure to Pittsburgh represents the same strategic thinking that drove the conversation.