Three Players Who Could Define the Braves’ 2026 Season.

The Atlanta Braves can make all the roster upgrades they want, but their success in the 2026 season will ultimately depend on the performance of their core players. While offseason moves have strengthened the team on paper, championships are won by stars producing consistently on the field. For Atlanta, three familiar names stand out as potential difference-makers next season. Although Michael Harris II remains an important piece of the franchise, his potential has already been explored in depth elsewhere. Instead, this discussion focuses on three other foundational players whose health and consistency could determine whether the Braves contend or fall short in 2026.

Austin Riley

Austin Riley’s absence at full strength has been one of the main reasons the Braves’ offense has declined since 2023. After dealing with a broken hand and later undergoing abdominal surgery that ended his 2025 season early, Riley has yet to fully return to his peak form. If he enters 2026 healthy and confident, the Braves could see a major rebound in offensive production. At his best, Riley is a middle-of-the-order force capable of approaching 40 home runs and driving in over 100 runs. Since 2023, Marcell Ozuna has been the only Brave to reach the 30-home-run mark in a season. Adding Riley’s power back into the lineup could be the difference in close games, especially after Atlanta struggled mightily in one-run contests last season. However, if Riley continues to underperform, the team’s complementary additions may not be enough to carry the offense.

Spencer Strider

Spencer Strider’s return in 2025 came with high expectations, as many believed his presence would immediately stabilize the starting rotation. While he eventually regained some consistency, his season was disrupted by recovery setbacks and post-surgery adjustments. These challenges clearly impacted the Braves’ overall pitching performance.

The good news for Atlanta is that Strider is expected to have a full Spring Training heading into 2026. That preparation time could be crucial in helping him regain his dominant form. If Strider can return to being a reliable ace, it would significantly improve the team’s outlook and take pressure off the rest of the pitching staff.

Ozzie Albies

Ozzie Albies’ recent seasons have been defined by flashes of excellence interrupted by injuries. Like Riley, both his availability and consistency have been concerns. Late in the 2025 season, Albies appeared to be rediscovering his rhythm at the plate before another wrist injury cut his momentum short. Over his final 26 games, Albies hit .304 with an .897 OPS, six home runs, and 24 RBIs—numbers that resemble his All-Star-caliber production. Extrapolated over a full season, that pace suggests elite offensive output. The key question heading into 2026 is whether his late-season injury will once again reset his progress. The version of Albies the Braves get could play a major role in shaping the team’s success.

The Braves’ 2026 season hinges less on new acquisitions and more on the return to form of their core stars. If Riley, Strider, and Albies can stay healthy and perform at their established levels, Atlanta has the potential to reclaim its status as a dominant contender. If not, even the best roster tweaks may not be enough to avoid another frustrating year.