Controversial Former Red Sox Outfielder Released By Braves

When the Boston Red Sox traded Mookie Betts to the Los Angeles Dodgers for Alex Verdugo, Connor Wong, and Jeter Downs before spring training in 2020, the Red Sox were confident they had acquired three players who would become foundational pieces in the team’s success for years to come.

Unfortunately for Red Sox fans, that would not be the case. That was especially true in the case of Verdugo, who would spend four seasons in Boston, which were characterized by streaky play on the field and later defined by philosophical differences with Red Sox manager Alex Cora, ultimately leading to an eventual trade to the New York Yankees in December 2023.

Following another mediocre season in 2024 with the Yankees, Verdugo struggled to attract interest in free agency last offseason, and ultimately signed a deal with the injury plagued Atlanta Braves in late March. After being designated for assignment early this week, the Braves released Verdugo on Saturday.

In 197 at-bats with the Braves this season, the 29-year-old hit .239 with 47 hits, and zero home runs and 12 RBI before being jettisoned from the roster to make room for the return of suspended outfielder Jurickson Profar earlier this week.

With his career now at a crossroads following his regression at the plate, Verdugo’s past, which includes off the field issues and highly publicized clashes with management, could have a major impact on his free agency when it comes to attracting interest from teams in need of outfield help this summer.