Alex Verdugo’s time in the Bronx has come to an unexpected and abrupt end—again.
After playing a pivotal role in the Yankees’ run to the 2024 World Series and earning a career-best $9.2 million in the process, Verdugo was initially left unsigned this past offseason. But as spring training unfolded, the Yankees brought him back on a short-term look, sparking hopes among fans that he might re-establish himself in pinstripes.
Those hopes were short-lived.
Following a brief return to the team, Verdugo was quietly released during the final stretch of camp, with Yankees brass opting to move in a different direction. Within days, he signed a one-year, $1.5 million deal with the Atlanta Braves—who assigned him to Triple-A.
The move initially appeared like a depth addition. But that changed dramatically when Braves outfielder Jurickson Profar received an 80-game suspension for a banned substance violation, creating an urgent need in Atlanta’s struggling lineup, which has opened the season 4-11.
Verdugo made his case quickly. Over the weekend, he crushed a three-run homer in a minor league game, after which he was promptly pulled—a strong indicator a call-up was imminent. By Monday, he had officially rejoined the majors and arrived in Toronto to suit up with the Braves for their series against the Blue Jays.
Eric Cole of Fansided had forecasted the move, writing, “Expecting Verdugo to be an All-Star is unrealistic, but if he can hit around .270 with some power and solid defense, that’s exactly what the Braves need right now.” MLB.com’s Mark Bowman agreed, noting Verdugo “definitely won’t be worse than Kelenic,” referring to Atlanta’s struggling corner outfielder.
Now back in the majors—but wearing a different uniform—Verdugo has a fresh chance to revive his career and help a slumping Braves team push toward an eighth straight playoff appearance.
Meanwhile, in New York, his departure leaves the Yankees with lingering questions about depth and balance in the outfield—a storyline that may continue to grow if Verdugo shines elsewhere.
