Just two months into the 2025 MLB season, tension is quietly brewing beneath the surface in Atlanta. While the Braves remain in striking distance of the NL East lead, fans and analysts alike are raising eyebrows over a trio of veteran players who, despite their long-standing roles as clubhouse pillars, have delivered a string of head-scratching performances in recent weeks.
And now, the speculation is heating up: could these puzzling displays be more than just slumps? According to several insiders, the signs may point toward something deeper — a subtle but undeniable indication that these stars may be angling for a change of scenery.
1. Alex Verdugo: Hot Start, Cold Signals
When Alex Verdugo was brought in this offseason, he injected early life into the Braves’ batting order. His energy, clutch hits, and defensive stability made him an instant fan favorite. But since mid-May, Verdugo’s production has sharply declined. Over his last 40 at-bats, he’s batting just .175 with a .220 on-base percentage, and his body language at the plate has noticeably changed — marked by short, tense at-bats and frequent glances toward the dugout.
Sources close to the team suggest Verdugo, who is on a one-year deal, may be feeling uncertain about his long-term role, especially with Jurickson Profar’s return from injury imminent. A trade to a team that can guarantee him more consistent starts may already be on his mind.
2. Raisel Iglesias: A Fall From Grace
Once one of the league’s most reliable closers, Raisel Iglesias has struggled mightily in the final year of his contract. His ERA has ballooned to 5.75 — nearly triple his average from 2022 to 2024 — and he’s surrendered five home runs in his last eight appearances. Notably, Iglesias has made subtle changes to his warm-up routine and has seemed disengaged during post-game media sessions.
While the Braves have stood by their veteran reliever, some around the league believe he is already anticipating a change of scenery — one that could give him a fresh start and potentially boost his value before free agency this winter.
3. Bryce Elder: Competent, But Checked Out?
Bryce Elder has been reliable if unspectacular this season, filling in as a fifth starter and eating valuable innings. But after being optioned back to Triple-A Gwinnett earlier this week to make room for Spencer Strider’s return, Elder’s social media posts — cryptic, somber, and vaguely reflective — raised eyebrows. One now-deleted Instagram story included a lyric-heavy caption that read, “Sometimes a change is what the soul needs.”
Although Elder has not publicly requested a trade, insiders believe he would welcome a deal that gives him a more consistent spot in a major league rotation.
Is a Shake-Up Inevitable?
With the MLB trade deadline set for July 31, the Braves front office — led by President of Baseball Operations Alex Anthopoulos — may be forced to make tough decisions. While Atlanta remains committed to competing in 2025, team officials have not ruled out moving veterans in favor of long-term stability and depth.
“Everyone’s watching the standings, sure,” said one anonymous NL executive. “But internally, the Braves are watching body language, locker room chemistry, and effort level just as closely. If a player’s not bought in, they’ll act fast.”
With over $40 million in combined salary tied to these three players, the potential exits could reshape Atlanta’s roster in a matter of weeks. And while fans remain hopeful that these are just temporary funks, the writing may already be on the wall.
What Comes Next?
The next few series will be crucial. The Braves face the Padres and Phillies in back-to-back road trips — games that will test the team’s cohesion and competitiveness. How Verdugo, Iglesias, and Elder respond could dictate their future with the club.
One thing’s for certain: the 2025 Braves aren’t just playing to win — they’re playing to prove who still belongs.
