Breaking news: As the Atlanta Braves look ahead to the 2025 season, several critical questions loom over the organization following a…..

1. Was it bad luck, poor performance, or a mix of both?
The Braves faced an unusual season marked by injuries and underperformance. While injuries played a significant role, the offense struggled even before the injury crisis hit. General Manager Alex Anthopoulos must evaluate whether the team’s issues stemmed from bad luck or if there are deeper performance-related concerns that need to be addressed [[2]](https://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/five-questions-the-braves-must-address-this-offseason/QSRV4AJHZ5BDFJD6UVDNMK2WLM/).

2. Will Max Fried return?
Max Fried, a pivotal member of the Braves’ pitching rotation, is set to become a free agent. His future with the team is uncertain, especially given his injury history and the fact that discussions for an extension have not progressed. The Braves will need to decide if they can afford to keep him or if they should explore other options for their rotation [[2]](https://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/five-questions-the-braves-must-address-this-offseason/QSRV4AJHZ5BDFJD6UVDNMK2WLM/).

3. Will the Braves’ offensive identity look any different?
The Braves have built their lineup around power hitting, but this season revealed weaknesses, particularly in situational hitting. They ranked poorly in batting average with runners in scoring position, raising questions about whether they need to adjust their offensive approach. Changes in coaching staff, particularly with hitting coach Kevin Seitzer, could be on the horizon as the team seeks to improve [[2]](https://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/five-questions-the-braves-must-address-this-offseason/QSRV4AJHZ5BDFJD6UVDNMK2WLM/) [[1]](https://www.mlb.com/news/braves-2024-25-offseason-questions).

4. What changes will be made to the lineup?
With many key players under long-term contracts, significant changes to the lineup may be limited. However, the Braves could look to upgrade positions like shortstop and evaluate the future of players like Jorge Soler and Jarred Kelenic. The decisions made here will be crucial in shaping the team’s competitiveness for the upcoming season [[2]](https://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/five-questions-the-braves-must-address-this-offseason/QSRV4AJHZ5BDFJD6UVDNMK2WLM/).

5. What will happen with key veterans?
The futures of several veterans, including Marcell Ozuna, Charlie Morton, and A.J. Minter, are in question. Ozuna has a team option that the Braves are likely to exercise due to his strong performance. Morton’s potential retirement looms large, while Minter’s recovery from surgery will determine his return to the bullpen. The Braves must navigate these decisions carefully to maintain their roster strength [[2]](https://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/five-questions-the-braves-must-address-this-offseason/QSRV4AJHZ5BDFJD6UVDNMK2WLM/) [[1]](https://www.mlb.com/news/braves-2024-25-offseason-questions).

As the Braves prepare for the offseason, these questions will be pivotal in determining their strategy and success in the 2025 season.

3. [5 questions the Braves must answer this offseason – Charleston Sports Radio](https://www.charlestonsportsradio.com/2024/10/12/5-questions-the-braves-must-answer-this-offseason