Marcell Ozuna is no longer a waiver candidate with the Atlanta Braves. He signed a one-year, $12 million contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates that includes a mutual option for 2027.
Marcell Ozuna’s Current Contract Status
Marcell Ozuna agreed to a one-year deal with the Pittsburgh Pirates in early February 2026. That contract pays him $10.5 million for the 2026 season and includes a mutual option worth $16 million for 2027 with a $1.5 million buyout if either side declines the option.
Ozuna’s deal is pending a physical, but the official reports confirm that he has moved on from the Braves and signed with Pittsburgh as a regular designated hitter.
His departure marks the end of his Atlanta tenure, where he had spent six years with the Braves before becoming a free agent.
Braves Waiver and Trade Rumor Timeline
2025 Trade Season Interest
During the 2025 season, Ozuna was frequently discussed as a potential trade candidate. MLB analysts and team insiders expected the Braves might move him at the trade deadline due to his looming free agency status and declining performance compared to earlier seasons.
At that time, he was considered an impending free agent along with other Braves veterans such as closer Raisel Iglesias and reliever Rafael Montero.
No-Trade Clause and Vetoed Moves
Ozuna holds 10-and-5 rights, meaning he has enough Major League service time to veto trades. Reports indicated that the Braves attempted to trade him before the 2025 deadline, but Ozuna reportedly vetoed several offers. Teams pursued him, but none fit his preferences or timing.
This veto ability limited Atlanta’s flexibility in moving him and contributed to rumors about his trade status.
Waiver Buzz
Despite trade chatter, there’s no credible report that Ozuna was placed on waivers by the Braves. Rumors on fan forums and social platforms sometimes mentioned fans hoping for roster moves, but there’s no official waiver designation for him from Atlanta.
The Braves opted to keep him on the roster through the 2025 season rather than risk losing him for minimal return via waivers or trades that required his approval.
Braves Roster Decisions Post-Ozuna
DH Role and Roster Planning
After Ozuna’s departure, Atlanta signaled that its designated hitter situation will be handled by committee if necessary. Analysts project that players like Jurickson Profar, Mike Yastrzemski, or even position players rotating into the DH spot will fill that role.
This indicates that the Braves did not see a long-term fit with Ozuna and chose not to pursue a big contract to retain him.
Offseason Strategy
The Braves added other players to their 2026 roster, including infielders and pitchers, as they reshaped the roster for the season ahead. These moves reflect a shift away from relying on Ozuna’s power production.
Trade Rumors and Industry Commentary
Interest From Other Teams
Before he signed with Pittsburgh, Ozuna was connected in rumors with several clubs. Teams such as the San Diego Padres and Tampa Bay Rays reportedly showed interest before the offseason progressed.
There was also fan and analyst speculation about possible fits in other leagues or with contenders looking for veteran power before the trade deadline.
Free Agent Market Dynamics
Ozuna’s 2025 season was below his 2023–24 performance level, which made his free agent market more uncertain than in previous years. His hip injury and drop in offensive output contributed to this cautious approach from teams.
Despite this, his career track record and power potential still made him a compelling short-term addition for teams like the Pirates.
Contract History With the Braves
Before his current deal, Ozuna was a key contributor for Atlanta. He earned multiple All-Star selections and posted strong offensive numbers, including big home run and RBI seasons.
His performance in 2025 dipped, but his overall tenure with the Braves included influence in the lineup and slugging leadership.
What This Means for Braves Fans
The news that Ozuna has signed elsewhere confirms that he is no longer part of Atlanta’s roster plans. As of early 2026, he is a free agent signee with the Pirates, not a waiver candidate on the Braves.
For the Braves, this opens opportunities for younger hitters and roster flexibility at DH and in the outfield positions.
Fans who want to stay updated on event tickets and promotions can explore platforms like WeChat Mini Program Ticketing Events for easy access and real-time notifications.
Some fans and community members have also discussed financial updates like the Rumored $697 Direct Deposit Payment while planning game attendance or merchandise purchases.
Career Overview of Marcell Ozuna
Marcell Ozuna, now 35, is a three-time All-Star, two-time Silver Slugger, and former Gold Glove winner. His career spans stints with the Marlins, Cardinals, and Braves, accumulating nearly 300 home runs in over 1,600 games.
