DOUBLE DOSE OF FIREPOWER: Braves Welcome Back Slugger Marcell Ozuna and Hand Debut to Star Acquisition Alex Verdugo
The Atlanta Braves are getting a major offensive boost just in time for a critical stretch of the 2025 MLB season. In what fans are calling a “double dose of firepower,” the Braves have activated two key outfielders: the powerful slugger Marcell Ozuna and their newly acquired star, Alex Verdugo. With both players ready to contribute, the Braves’ lineup looks significantly more dangerous as they gear up for a slate of pivotal games.
Marcell Ozuna has been sidelined with a sore hip, missing valuable time during the early portion of the season. Prior to the injury, Ozuna had been a consistent force in the Braves’ lineup, providing clutch hits and long-ball power. His return gives the Braves back their cleanup hitter and one of the most feared bats in the National League. Even during rehab, the veteran slugger remained vocal in the clubhouse, mentoring younger players and staying locked in with the team’s plans. Now, with his health back in order, he’s ready to reassert himself as a core part of Atlanta’s offensive engine.
Joining Ozuna in the outfield is Alex Verdugo, a high-profile acquisition who is making his Braves debut after being recalled from Triple-A Gwinnett. Verdugo brings both versatility and playoff experience to the roster. Known for his defensive prowess and gap-to-gap hitting, Verdugo adds a layer of balance to the Braves’ outfield configuration. He’s expected to start regularly in either left or center field, depending on matchups, and should be a strong presence in the middle of the batting order.
These additions come at a perfect time. The Braves are entering a stretch of tough matchups, including a weekend series against the Minnesota Twins and a divisional showdown with the St. Louis Cardinals. With the National League East shaping up to be a tight race again this year, every series matters—and having both Ozuna and Verdugo in the mix significantly improves Atlanta’s odds.
Manager Brian Snitker expressed confidence in the team’s outlook following the roster moves. “Getting Marcell back is huge—he’s a game-changer. And we’re excited to see what Alex brings to this clubhouse,” Snitker said. “They’re both professionals who know how to compete at a high level.”
Beyond their on-field impact, both players bring veteran leadership to a Braves team that’s built around a blend of youth and experience. With Ozuna’s playoff pedigree and Verdugo’s energy and versatility, the Braves have the tools to stay competitive deep into the summer.
For fans, this marks an exciting turning point. The lineup is deeper, the outfield is stronger, and the team is trending upward. If Ozuna can find his power stroke again and Verdugo settles into a rhythm, Atlanta could be looking at one of the most complete lineups in the league.
Get ready, Braves Country—the fireworks are just getting started.
