The Atlanta Braves currently sit atop the National League East and are looking to win the division for the first time in several seasons. After a disappointing year in 2025, Atlanta has shown significant improvement and is positioning itself for another postseason run.
The Braves continued that momentum Sunday by defeating the Arizona Diamondbacks 5-3, avoiding a three-game sweep.
Matt Olson provided the big offensive blow with a three-run home run, while Bryce Elder delivered six strong innings to help secure the victory.
Despite their success on the field, the Braves are still making adjustments to their roster as they prepare for the stretch run.
One of the notable moves came Sunday when Atlanta released veteran first baseman Carlos Santana from Triple-A Gwinnett.
The decision allows Santana to become a free agent and pursue another opportunity with a team that could potentially give him a path back to the major leagues.
Santana joined the Braves just over a month ago on a minor league contract after being released by the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Atlanta viewed the 40-year-old veteran as valuable organizational depth and insurance at first base, but his chances of receiving a call-up had become increasingly limited.
During his time with Gwinnett, Santana hit .292 with a .385 on-base percentage and a .382 slugging percentage, adding two home runs across 104 plate appearances.
With his opportunity in Atlanta fading, the Braves ultimately decided to grant him his release.
The move gives Santana another chance to continue his lengthy MLB career elsewhere.
A veteran of 16 major league seasons, Santana has earned an All-Star selection, appeared in a World Series and accumulated roughly $125 million in career earnings.
While his time with the Braves did not result in a return to the majors, his release allows him to immediately explore other options as teams assess their own roster needs.
For Atlanta, meanwhile, the decision reflects the club’s continued effort to fine-tune its roster as it pursues the NL East crown and aims to establish itself as a legitimate World Series contender.
