Marcell Ozuna of the Atlanta Braves (Image via Getty) Atlanta Braves rumors are picking up as the front office continues to explore the idea of trading for Corey Seager. Even early interest has been enough to spark league-wide discussion, given what the move would mean for both teams involved. Nothing is close, but the combination of Atlanta’s ongoing shortstop problem and the Rangers’ openness to veteran moves has turned this into one of the more talked-about scenarios of the offseason.
Atlanta Braves exploring Corey Seager despite major obstacle
Multiple reports from the Winter Meetings indicate the Atlanta Braves have at least checked in on Seager as they look for stability at shortstop. Since Dansby Swanson left, the position has remained unsettled. The biggest issue, however, has nothing to do with money or prospects. Atlanta is on Seager’s no-trade list, meaning any deal would require his approval.That alone has kept talks at an early stage. Rangers general manager Chris Young has acknowledged a willingness to adjust the roster as Texas manages payroll following the Marcus Semien deal. Still, there have been no deep negotiations around Seager, who is owed about $186 million over the next six seasons. National reporters, including Jeff Passan, have described Atlanta’s interest as real but exploratory.
Why Atlanta Braves see Corey Seager as the right fit
Corey Seager of Texas Rangers (Image via Getty)
Atlanta’s interest is easy to understand. Shortstop production in 2025 was a clear weak point. The position produced just 1.1 fWAR, with little power and limited on-base impact. Adding Seager would immediately change that, giving the lineup another reliable bat next to Ronald Acuña Jr. and Matt Olson.Compared to recent options like Mauricio Dubón, Seager would bring consistent power and a proven playoff track record. His presence would also give the Braves flexibility, whether that means keeping him at shortstop or moving pieces around the infield to protect health and defense.
Possible trade framework
Any proposal remains speculative, but league chatter suggests Texas would focus on depth rather than top-tier prospects. One idea discussed by insiders involves Atlanta sending controllable pitching and secondary pieces while receiving financial help.Names mentioned in those conversations include Hurston Waldrep and Dylan Dodd, along with additional depth to balance value. There has also been talk of the Rangers retaining $10–15 million per year to reduce Seager’s $31 million average salary. The concept fits Atlanta’s win-now approach, but everything depends on whether Seager would agree to waive his clause.
What the Texas Rangers would be weighing
For the Texas Rangers, moving Seager would mark a clear shift in direction. After finishing 81–81 and facing payroll pressure, the appeal of shedding long-term salary while rebuilding pitching depth is obvious. Still, trading a franchise player who delivered in the postseason would be difficult to justify, both internally and to fans.Seager is 31, and durability has become part of the discussion after recent injuries. Texas could decide it is better to move early than risk decline, but replacing a hitter with his résumé would not be easy.
Statistical gap at shortstop
The numbers explain why this rumor continues to surface.SeasonPkayer/TeamGAVGHRRBIOPSWAR 2025 Corey Seager 102 .271 21 50 .860 6.1 2025 Braves SS (combined) ~120 .220 8 35 .650 1.1 2023–25 avg Seager 120 .285 33 85 .950 6.0Advanced data widens the gap further. Seager’s .365 wOBA and strong barrel rate stand well above Atlanta’s recent infield output. Projections suggest his power would translate cleanly to Truist Park.
Pros and cons for both sides
Atlanta Braves advantages
• Adds an elite hitter at a major weak spot• Left-handed power fits well in the division• Deep postseason experience
Atlanta Braves risks
• Recent injury history• Heavy long-term salary commitment• No-trade clause could end talks
Texas Rangers advantages
• Adds pitching depth and prospect value• Reduces long-term payroll• Allows a roster reset
Texas Rangers risks
• Losing a franchise player• No clear replacement for his offense• Potential fan backlash
Who benefits most?
If Seager were willing to approve a move, Atlanta would secure one of the biggest additions possible and immediately shift the balance in the National League. Texas would gain future flexibility, but at the cost of star power and identity.Also read: MLB trade rumors: New York Mets might acquire $10 million Philadelphia Phillies star to bolster team before deadlineFor now, this remains a high-level possibility rather than a realistic deal. Still, as long as Atlanta keeps searching for answers at shortstop and Texas stays open to reshaping its roster, Corey Seager’s name will remain part of the offseason conversation.