The Atlanta Braves have officially opted to retain designated hitter Marcell Ozuna, catcher Travis d'Arnaud, and reliever Aaron Bummer for the 2025 season, committing a total of $31.25 million. Ozuna will be the highest-paid among them at $16 million.

However, relief pitcher Luke Jackson's future with the team looks bleak as the Braves have not exercised his $7 million option. Jackson struggled during his stint, posting a 4.50 ERA in 16 appearances.

With d'Arnaud returning to share catching duties with Sean Murphy, and Bummer reinforcing the bullpen, the Braves will need to find a new middle reliever if Jackson departs. Closer Raisel Iglesias will also be back, ensuring stability in the bullpen.

The 2024 season for the Atlanta Braves ended in disappointment as they were swept in the wild-card round by the San Diego Padres. Despite winning 89 games, the team faced significant injuries that hindered their offensive performance, particularly from star players like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Michael Harris II.

On the pitching side, Chris Sale excelled, leading the National League in key categories, but his postseason impact was limited due to injury. The Braves are now looking ahead to the 2025 season with a strong roster and plans to improve after a rare year without playoff success.

In a dramatic final day of the regular season at Truist Park, both the New York Mets and Atlanta Braves celebrated their playoff berths, albeit in very different circumstances. Braves manager Brian Snitker reflected on the rollercoaster of emotions his team faced, especially with Chris Sale's injury impacting their pitching plans.

The Mets, led by Carlos Mendoza, experienced a thrilling comeback in Game 1, overcoming a 3-run deficit with key performances from Jose Iglesias and Brandon Nimmo. The Braves, however, faced pressure as they battled to secure their playoff spot.

As the day unfolded, both teams showcased resilience, with the Mets ultimately celebrating their playoff entry, while the Braves prepared for their next challenge. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and tension, highlighting the unpredictable nature of baseball.

The New York Mets secured their playoff spot with a thrilling comeback victory in the first game of a doubleheader, overcoming a 3-0 deficit in the eighth inning. Francisco Lindor's two-run homer sealed the win, while the Atlanta Braves clinched their postseason berth with a 3-0 victory in the nightcap.

Braves manager Brian Snitker praised his team's resilience, especially after ace Chris Sale was scratched from the start due to back spasms. Both teams celebrated their playoff qualifications, marking a memorable end to the regular season.

The Atlanta Braves secured the final playoff spot with a 3-0 victory over the New York Mets in the second game of a doubleheader, following an 8-7 loss in the first game. The Mets had clinched their postseason berth earlier, overcoming a 3-0 deficit in the opener thanks to Francisco Lindor's two-run homer.

Pitcher Grant Holmes stepped up for the Braves, delivering four scoreless innings in the nightcap. The Mets celebrated their 11th postseason appearance in franchise history, marking their first since 2022. Key performances included Ozzie Albies' crucial hits for Atlanta and Lindor's impactful contributions for New York.