The Atlanta Braves signed free agent outfielder Mike Yastrzemski to a two-year, $23 million contract on Wednesday that includes a third-year $7 million team option with a $4 million buyout. Yastrzemski, 35, will provide outfield depth and insurance while catcher Sean Murphy recovers from September hip surgery.
The left-handed-hitting corner outfielder will earn $9 million in 2026 and $10 million in 2027. The deal gives Atlanta flexibility to shift Jurickson Profar to designated hitter duties if Murphy requires additional recovery time, allowing Yastrzemski to move into left field.
Yastrzemski ranks 42nd in the majors in wRC+ against right-handed pitching since his 2019 debut with the San Francisco Giants. He hit .233 with 17 home runs and a .735 OPS in 146 games last season split between San Francisco and the Kansas City Royals.
Against right-handed pitchers specifically, Yastrzemski produced 15 home runs and an .809 OPS across 454 plate appearances in 2025. His platoon splits make him a valuable weapon against righties in the Braves lineup.
A strong defender at both outfield corners, Yastrzemski can provide rest days for superstar right fielder Ronald Acuna Jr. He also possesses the ability to fill in at center field when needed, adding roster flexibility for manager Brian Snitker.
The grandson of Hall of Famer Carl Yastrzemski brings veteran experience and positional versatility to an Atlanta roster seeking outfield insurance. His defensive capabilities allow the Braves to manage workloads across multiple positions throughout the 162-game schedule.
The signing addresses Atlanta\'s need for additional outfield depth while maintaining financial flexibility with the team option structure. Yastrzemski\'s proven track record against right-handed pitching strengthens the Braves\' platoon options heading into 2026.