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Jurickson Profar comes out of hiding for first time since suspension
Jurickson Profar finally appears on the field, going 2-for-4 for Tiburones de La Guaira in the Venezuelan Winter League, marking his first public outing since serving a 162‑game PED ban that wiped out the 2026 season. After a period of silence that even led Ronald Acuña Jr. to criticize his absence, Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos acknowledges the team must decide the future of Profar, who is owed $15 million for 2027 regardless of his status. The club faces a dilemma between recouping value from a seasoned player and upholding its cultural standards after Profar’s repeated cheating allegations. The outcome will determine whether Atlanta absorbs the sunk‑cost contract or cuts ties despite the financial hit.
Contract projections revealed for Mauricio Dubon, Raisel Iglesias
Jim Bowden of The Athletic projects free‑agent contracts for Braves targets Mauricio Dubon and Raisel Iglesias. Bowden spins Dubon at a two‑year, $16 million deal, but notes his Gold‑Glove defense and 2.0 WAR average could push the market value toward $20‑30 million amid a potential bidding war. Reliever Iglesias is projected to earn $17 million for one year—a figure matching his recent extension after an All‑Star 2026—though age and the emergence of Robert Suarez may make the Braves hesitant. Both players could return, but price tags will be decisive.
Who should the Falcons consider trading ahead of the deadline?
The Falcons sit at 3-4, a half-game behind the Panthers, and face the NFL trade deadline with a potential move on cornerback Mike Hughes. Fox Sports lists Hughes as a trade candidate, noting a swap could open a larger role for rookie Aveon Terrell, especially once A.J. Terrell returns from injury. However, analysts argue the secondary’s health issues and Hughes' limited return value make a trade unlikely, suggesting Atlanta will retain him for depth as they chase a playoff debut since 2017.
5 Free Agents The Braves Should Target: Outfielders
The Braves’ off‑season priorities shift to the outfield, where five free agents stand out. Randy Arozarena, fresh off a 26‑HR, .865 OPS season and 12 postseason homers, would demand north of $100 million—a sum Atlanta’s owner may reject. Seiya Suzuki, a 32‑year‑old with an .823 OPS over five years in Chicago, faces a similar price tag. More affordable options include Jake Bauers, who hit 26 homers with an .874 OPS and earned NLCS MVP, but Milwaukee likely won’t let him go. Veteran Ian Happ, a consistent .800‑OPS, Gold‑Glove player, offers solid production at a lower cost with a multi‑year deal. Finally, Taylor Ward, a former 36‑HR slugger now at .670 OPS, could serve as a platoon partner for Mike Yastrzemski. The article weighs each prospect against the Braves’ budget and roster needs.
Are the Falcons making a case to buy at the trade deadline?
The Atlanta Falcons sit 3‑4 after seven weeks but sit a half‑game behind the NFC South leader, thanks to Michael Penix Jr.'s resurgence (9 TDs, 1 INT, top‑10 QBR). A dominant defensive front and the imminent return of pass rusher James Pearce Jr. add to the buzz. Yet, despite a strong draft haul and low‑cost free‑agent impact players like Jahan Dotson and Za’Darius Smith, the team isn’t yet championship‑ready. Ownership and the coaching staff argue against buying at the trade deadline, preferring to preserve future picks for a full‑draft offseason when cap space will be abundant.
Jim Bowden names Braves “best fit” for four top free agents
Former GM Jim Bowden ranks the winter’s top 40 free agents and highlights the Braves’ best fits. He says shortstop Mauricio Dubon is the only true free‑agent option to fill Atlanta’s hole, while marquee trade targets like Otto López, Zach Neto or Corey Seager could also work. Outfielder Randy Arozarena, Bowden’s No. 5 free agent, offers 5.7 WAR and 12 postseason homers but likely commands a $100 M‑plus deal that may deter the Braves. Reliever Raisel Iglesias could return on a one‑year, $10 M contract to shore up a bullpen losing Didier Fuentes to the rotation. Japanese pitcher Hiromi Itoh is another affordable option at two years, $22 M.
Contract Projections For Potential Braves Free Agent Targets: Starting Pitchers
SportsTalk ATL breaks down Jim Bowden’s free‑agent contract projections for starting pitchers the Braves could pursue this offseason. The list ranges from Tarik Skubal’s $350‑500 million price tag (dismissed as unrealistic) to affordable one‑year deals for Kevin Gausman ($22 M) and Shane Bieber ($20 M). The author highlights Freddy Peralta ($140 M/5 yrs) and Trevor Rogers ($64 M/3 yrs) as notable targets, notes Clay Holmes could reunite with former coach Jeremy Hefner, and questions why Tyler Mahle is missing. With rotation uncertainty, the piece offers a realistic look at viable Braves options.
All the stats suggest Michael Penix Jr. can be the Falcons franchise quarterback
Michael Penix Jr. is shaping up as the Atlanta Falcons’ franchise quarterback, posting top‑10 numbers in several key metrics through his first five starts of 2026. He boasts a 66.7% completion rate—tied with Josh Allen—fourth‑best passer rating (109.1) among qualified QBs, and a league‑best 2% interception‑worthy throw rate with just one pick all season. The Falcons sit 3‑2 with Penix, a record that could have been 4‑1 without the loss to the Ravens. While some situational throws need refinement and his ACL recovery remains a concern, the stats suggest he can be the long‑term answer if he stays healthy.
The Marlins’ Otto Lopez Is the Braves’ Dream Shortstop Target
The Atlanta Braves eye Marlins shortstop Otto Lopez as their ideal trade target, according to Miami Herald reporter Barry Jackson. Lopez boasts elite defense (14 OAA, six DRS) and posted a career‑best .305 average with a league‑leading 191 hits, though he has modest power (11 HR this season). With three years of control left, Miami would consider moving him only for a hefty return, despite recent blockbuster deals with the Phillies. The Braves, still searching for a consistent offensive solution beyond the long ball, may need to trade top prospects to secure Lopez, as free‑agent shortstop options are scarce this offseason.
How can you not be excited about the direction of the Falcons?
Despite a long postseason drought, the Atlanta Falcons show promising signs under new leadership. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr., returning from an ACL injury, is posting a 67% completion rate, 109.2 passer rating, nine TDs to one INT, and a QBR ninth in the league, guiding Atlanta to a 3-2 record in his starts. The rookie class, built without a first‑round pick, contributes immediately: Avieon Terrell anchors the secondary, while Kendal Daniels, Harold Perkins Jr., and Zachariah Branch make impact plays on defense. Offseason moves add depth, with trades for Maason Smith and Gervon Dexter Sr., plus low‑cost free agents Za’Darius Smith (4.5 sacks), Cam Thomas, and Samson Ebukam bolstering the pass rush. These developments suggest the Falcons could finally get their QB and defense right.
Michael Penix Jr., Falcons get statement win over the 49ers
The Falcons pull off a statement 24-15 win over the previously unbeaten 49ers in Week 7. After trailing 14-3, Michael Penix Jr. sparks a comeback with three touchdown passes—two to Nick Muse and Kyle Pitts—while the defense forces crucial turnovers, including a game‑changing interception by rookie Kendal Daniels. A late field goal by Nick Folk seals the victory, giving Atlanta a 3-2 record since Penix returned and reviving hopes of ending the playoff drought that began in 2017. The win comes amid a tough schedule that still includes the Packers, Ravens, Bucs, Chiefs, Bengals, Vikings and Lions.
Does Raheem Morris give the 49ers a significant edge over the Falcons offense?
Week 7 pits the struggling Falcons against an unbeaten 49ers squad led by defensive coordinator Raheem Morris, who returns to his former team seeking revenge. Morris knows Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr.’s tendencies, but the article argues that Penix’s strengths and weaknesses are already widely studied league‑wide. While San Francisco’s defense is elite, its blitz rate sits at a middling 27.4% and could rise if star edge rusher Nick Bosa misses the game. The piece questions whether Morris’s insider knowledge truly gives the 49ers a unique edge or simply mirrors standard defensive game plans against the Falcons’ offense.
Braves predicted to make blockbuster trade for Zach Neto
The Atlanta Braves are primed for a blockbuster trade to solve their chronic shortstop woes, targeting Los Angeles Angels’ Zach Neto. At 25 homers, 5+ WAR and a .770 OPS per season, Neto offers a franchise‑level upgrade at a cost of three years of arbitration ($9.8 M in 2027) versus the $200 M free‑agent price tag. With internal options like Jim Jarvis and prospects Tate Southisene, John Gil, and Alex Lodise far from ready, the Braves may tap their extensive trade history with the Angels to secure Neto, turning Atlanta back into a championship contender. The move hinges on surrendering significant prospect capital.
Why there’s still hope for the Falcons at 2-4
The Falcons sit 2‑4 after tough losses to the Ravens and Bears, then face a brutal stretch that includes the undefeated 49ers, a trip to Madrid against the Bengals, and games versus Detroit and a surging Browns squad. Despite the gauntlet, the article highlights bright spots: rookie QB Michael Penix Jr. is 13th in QBR with six TDs and one INT in his first four starts, and Atlanta’s defensive line—anchored by Gervon Dexter Sr., Brandon Dorlus and newcomer Maason Smith—ranks fifth in pass‑rush win rate and second in run‑stuff win rate. These developments give hope that the Falcons can rebound before the season’s end.
Two star Japanese free agents that should interest the Braves
The Braves could strengthen two key holes this offseason by targeting Japanese free agents. Third baseman/outfielder Teruaki Sato, fresh off a Triple Crown in Japan (.306, 39 HR, 106 RBI, .991 OPS), is projected to command $100‑150 million and could become the league’s top offensive pickup, comparable to recent successes like Seiya Suzuki and Munetaka Murakami. On the mound, Sawamura Award winner Hiromi Itoh posted a 2.52 ERA over 27 starts in 2025; his elite control and diverse arsenal make him a viable mid‑rotation starter or high‑leveraging reliever for a Braves staff that needs fresh arms after losing Raisel Iglesias. Both players offer high upside at reasonable risk for Atlanta.
Falcons catching the 49ers at the right time for an upset
The Atlanta Falcons, 0-3 at home and 2-4 overall, enter Week 7 as the only team to have yet beaten the San Francisco 49ers this season. While the 49ers boast a top‑tier roster and recent wins over the Rams and Seahawks, they face a short week, cross‑country travel, and key injuries—including Mike Evans, Deebo Samuel, Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams. Those setbacks give Atlanta a scheduling edge and motivation to avoid another loss. Historically unpredictable, the Falcons have pulled off upsets against elite squads, and a strong A‑game could finally topple the 49ers on Sunday.
Shortstop free agent targets for the Braves
The Braves face a glaring shortstop void after Dansby Swanson’s departure and Mauricio Dubon’s pending free agency. Writer Kyle Evans admits finding viable targets is near impossible, dismissing JP Crawford, Orlando Arcia, Nicky Lopez, Jorge Mateo and Ha‑Seong Kim as inadequate. He argues the only realistic option is retaining Dubon, who excelled defensively last season but will attract league‑wide interest, making a re‑sign difficult. The piece highlights the scarcity of quality shortstop free agents and the Braves’ upcoming dilemma.
Will the Braves consider trading Ozzie Albies this offseason?
The Braves are unlikely to trade Ozzie Albies this offseason despite his $7 million option and interest from other clubs. While Acuña Jr.’s contracts are locked in, Albies’ 2024‑26 performance—an 89 wRC+, 22 HRs, .700 OPS, and solid postseason showing—makes him a valuable, low‑cost second baseman. Trading him would create a costly roster hole, and Atlanta lacks cash flexibility. Only a blockbuster swap that fills another need might prompt a move, but the consensus is Atlanta will keep Albies, especially as he heads into a 30‑year‑old season on a cheap deal.
Takeaways from the Hawks opening night win over the Magic
The Hawks clinch an opening‑night victory over the Magic, showcasing a deep, versatile roster. Front office sticks with its young core while adding role players Lu Dort and Aaron Wiggins, who combine for 24 points off the bench. Nickeil Alexander‑Walker leads the night with 31 points, hitting five of eight threes and sealing the win with back‑to‑back threes in the final 90 seconds. Jock Landale contributes 10 points, and a nine‑man rotation sees rookie Kingston Flemings log 15 minutes. Newcomers Zuby Ejiofor and Flemings had minimal impact, but the team’s depth promises a competitive Eastern Conference run. Published Oct. 22, 2026 by SportsTalk ATL.
5 Free Agents The Braves Should Target: Starting Pitchers
Amid lockdown worries, the Braves’ top offseason priority is shoring up their starting rotation. The article pitches five free‑agent arms: Trevor Rogers, whose 4.03 ERA hides elite chase metrics and a 5.3 WAR flash in 2025; Sonny Gray, a league‑leading 18‑win, 2.72 ERA veteran likely to decline his $30 M Red Sox option; Clay Holmes, coming off a 3.23 ERA despite a mid‑season injury and familiar with pitching coach Jeremy Hefner; Tyler Mahle, who posted a 1.99 ERA for Atlanta in 2026 and could return on a short‑term deal; and former Brave Michael Soroka, now a 3.41 ERA free agent after a solid Diamondbacks stint. The piece argues landing at least two of these starters is essential for Atlanta to avoid another underwhelming rotation.
Stefanski: Zachariah Branch’s role won’t change after nightmare showing against Bears
The Atlanta Falcons fell 31-23 to the Chicago Bears after rookie returner Zachariah Branch muffed a punt and later fumbled a kickoff, directly leading to 10 Bears points. Despite the setbacks, Branch caught a two‑point conversion in the fourth quarter and showed flashes of explosiveness, prompting head coach Kevin Stefanski to confirm his role on special teams will stay unchanged. The article argues the Falcons shouldn’t overhaul the return unit after one poor night, noting Branch’s potential and the need for more opportunities over the underperforming Olamide Zaccheaus.
Falcons announce fantastic news on A.J. Terrell and Kendal Daniels
The Falcons may have their top cornerback back for Sunday’s clash with the unbeaten 49ers as A.J. Terrell returns to practice after a Week 2 groin injury, opening his 21‑day IR window. Rookie linebacker Kendal Daniels also practiced following a scary stretcher‑exit injury, hinting at a possible Sunday debut. Meanwhile, LB Divine Deablo remains questionable after an arm injury against the Bears. With Brock Purdy leading San Francisco, Atlanta’s defense hopes Terrell’s comeback will boost their upset chances.
In hindsight, did the Braves really fail at the trade deadline?
The Braves’ 2026 trade deadline was quiet but surprisingly effective. General manager Alex Anthopoulos passed on big targets like Tarik Skubal and lost a deal for Jacob deGrom, yet landed Tyler Mahle for $2 million—a 1.99 ERA over nine regular‑season starts and stellar postseason outings, arguably the deadline’s best haul. Reliever Brent Suter, acquired for nothing, posted a 1.66 ERA in 27.2 innings and helped shut down the Dodgers in the NLDS. The only miss was Lane Thomas, who slumped to .171 in 46 plate appearances and spent the final month injured. While the offense remained thin, the bargains kept the Braves competitive without mortgaging the future.
Buy or Sell: Atlanta Braves Free Agents
SportsTalk ATL breaks down the Braves' 2027 free‑agent list, offering clear buy‑or‑sell verdicts. The outlet advises a hard sell on Ha‑Seong Kim after a disastrous one‑year stint, and recommends letting go of 37‑year‑old reliever Raisel Iglesias despite his 2.55 ERA, citing age and emerging closer Robert Suarez. Starting pitcher Tyler Mahle, who finished 2026 with a 1.99 ERA and strong postseason outings, is flagged as a must‑keep, though Anthopoulos may shy from a bidding war. Martin Perez, a surprise 3.04 ERA performer, is likely to be re‑signed on a modest deal. Shortstop Mauricio Dubon earns a strong buy recommendation, while left‑fielder Lane Thomas is a cheap, depth‑first buy, and reliever Brent Suter gets a similar nod after a 1.63 ERA in limited action.
How to watch the Atlanta Hawks on TV this season
The Atlanta Hawks announce a new broadcast deal: all in‑market games stream for free on Amazon Prime Video for any Prime member, making the Hawks the first NBA team to offer exclusive local games on the platform. Out‑of‑market viewers must still use NBA League Pass. The partnership replaces the unreliable Bally Sports feed and mirrors the Braves' recent move to Braves TV, but without an extra subscription fee. The season opens tomorrow against the Orlando Magic, giving Atlanta fans immediate access via Prime.
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