The Atlanta Braves added a player in MLB free agency.
The Atlanta Braves continue to explore ways to strengthen their organizational depth as they prepare for a return to the MLB playoffs in 2026.
With a veteran core anchored by established superstars and a competitive window firmly open, Atlanta’s front office has focused on low‑risk additions that could provide value if opportunities arise during the long grind of a 162‑game season.
Attention turned toward a former top prospect on Tuesday looking to reestablish himself at the big‑league level. “First baseman Dominic Smith finds job with Atlanta, signing one‑year minor‑league contract,” reported Bob Nightengale of USA Today.
The move comes after additional reporting indicated the Braves agreed to a minor-league deal that includes a non‑roster invitation to major league camp, giving Smith an opportunity to compete for a depth role entering the season.
Smith’s peak came during the shortened 2020 campaign with the New York Mets, when he finished 13th in National League MVP voting. That season, he hit .316 with 10 home runs and 42 RBIs in 50 games, posting a .377 on‑base percentage and a .616 slugging percentage. His offensive breakout followed a strong finish in 2019.
However, injuries altered the trajectory of his career. Smith attempted to play through a small tear in the labrum of his right shoulder in 2021, and his production declined sharply. In 2024, he suffered a broken hamate bone in his right hand that required surgery, and medical evaluations suggested he may have been dealing with a stress reaction in that hand for multiple seasons.
There were signs of life in 2025 for Smith suggesting that he could be a contributor this upcoming season. In 225 plate appearances with the San Francisco Giants, Smith posted a .284/.333/.417 line, performing particularly well against right‑handed pitching. That bounce‑back showing likely contributed to Atlanta’s interest and why the move became official today.
This signing is significant for the Braves because there is no immediate path to everyday at‑bats with Matt Olson locked in at first base. However, Smith provides experienced depth in case of injury and could factor into the designated hitter mix if needed. Atlanta’s bench currently leans more toward defensive versatility than offensive production, so adding a left‑handed hitter coming off an above‑average season gives the club optionality.
For Smith, the deal represents another opportunity to revive a once‑promising career. For Atlanta, it is a calculated depth move that could quietly pay dividends over the course of a long season.