Braves Predicted to Part Ways with $1.25M Historic Lefty When Key Players Return

Dominic Smith's strong debut may not be enough to keep him on the Braves' roster once injured starters Sean Murphy and Ha-Seong Kim return.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 10:52pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball game or match, with sharp, overlapping planes of navy blue, forest green, and burnt orange, conveying the complex roster decisions facing the Atlanta Braves.As the Braves navigate roster decisions amid key injuries, the team's future plans for veteran slugger Dominic Smith remain uncertain.Atlanta Today

The Atlanta Braves signed veteran infielder Dominic Smith to a $1.25 million contract after a strong spring training performance, including a walk-off grand slam in his Braves debut. However, with several key players like Spencer Strider, Ha-Seong Kim, and Sean Murphy currently sidelined, there is growing belief that Smith could be the odd man out once those injured starters return to the lineup in the next month.

Why it matters

The Braves have benefited from Smith's early-season production, but his roster spot may become untenable once the team gets healthier. The Braves may have to explore trade options for Smith, who has proven he can still contribute at the MLB level despite being designated for assignment by the Giants last season.

The details

Smith earned a $1.25 million contract with the Braves after a strong spring training, including a walk-off grand slam in his debut. He's taken advantage of opportunities created by injuries to players like Strider, Kim, and Murphy. However, the Braves are expected to part ways with Smith once those key players return, as it will be difficult to keep him on the roster beyond being a bench bat.

  • Smith signed a $1.25 million contract with the Braves in March 2026.
  • Smith hit a walk-off grand slam in his Braves debut in early April 2026.
  • Strider, Kim, and Murphy are expected to return to the Braves lineup within the next month.

The players

Dominic Smith

A veteran infielder who signed a $1.25 million contract with the Braves after a strong spring training, including a walk-off grand slam in his debut.

Spencer Strider

A Braves starting pitcher who is currently sidelined with an injury.

Ha-Seong Kim

A Braves infielder who is currently sidelined with an injury.

Sean Murphy

A Braves catcher who is currently sidelined with an injury.

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What they’re saying

“Surely the Braves would hope to keep a player who is performing at this level. But it's tough to see him remaining with the club, especially with Sean Murphy and Ha-Seong Kim returning in the next month or so. That will make it hard to keep Smith on the roster, besides being a bench bat. He certainly has value as a lefty power bat off the bench, but if Atlanta can improve the team in any way, they'll absolutely move him.”

— Steven Teal, Writer

What’s next

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The takeaway

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