Braves and Utilityman Tyler Freeman Agree to Minor League Contract

The Atlanta Braves have added depth to their roster by agreeing to a minor league contract with utilityman Tyler Freeman, according to a report by Thomas Harding of MLB.com. As part of the agreement, the 27-year-old infielder and outfielder will attend big league camp as a non-roster invitee ahead of the 2027 campaign. Harding also noted that Freeman underwent back surgery in October but is expected to be physically cleared for game action by late March.

Selected 71st overall by Cleveland in the 2017 draft, Freeman spent years ranked as a top prospect due to his exceptional contact abilities. Over parts of five major league seasons with the Guardians and Rockies, he has posted a .247/.323/.336 batting line while striking out in just 13.4% of his plate appearances. Despite his strong bat-to-ball skills, he has struggled defensively across multiple positions in the infield and outfield, and his sprint speed dipped to average levels during a 2026 season hampered by a concussion and lumbar pain.

For Atlanta, the acquisition serves as a low-risk depth move as the team evaluates its bench options. The Braves currently lack a clear starter at shortstop and face uncertainties among their reserve infielders and outfielders. If Freeman successfully recovers from his back procedure and earns a spot on the major league roster, the club retains a minor league option year alongside two potential seasons of arbitration control.

• Signing Details: Minor league contract with a non-roster invitation to major league camp.
• Health Status: Recovering from October back surgery with an expected return to games by late March.
• Career Stats: .247/.323/.336 batting line across five major league seasons.