Are you looking for a power-hitting veteran or a ready-to-go designated hitter? Meet Marcell Ozuna.
At 35 years old, Ozuna continues to be a formidable threat from the right side, belting 21 home runs over 145 regular-season games in 2025. During his 2023-2024 stint with the Atlanta Braves, he averaged 39.5 home runs and 102 RBIs per season, proving he’s a dependable power hitter who can anchor the middle of any MLB lineup.
If Ozuna decides to leave Atlanta, here are three top free agents who would be ideal replacements.
The Pittsburgh Pirates, known for their strong starting rotation, have struggled offensively. Ozuna could provide a much-needed boost to their lineup. Last season, the Pirates were at the bottom of MLB in RBIs (583), home runs (117), and slugging percentage (.350), while ranking 28th in hits (1,244) and tied for 23rd in on-base percentage (.305). Ozuna would likely become their most potent power hitter and offer veteran leadership in the middle of the lineup.
Pittsburgh’s recent acquisitions of infielders Brandon Lowe and Ryan O’Hearn were smart, and outfielder Bryan Reynolds—a two-time All-Star—has rebounded after a disappointing 2025 season (.245/.318/.402). Young talents like O’Neal Crews and 2024 first-round pick Connor Griffin might soon step up, but adding Ozuna could push the Pirates toward competing for an NL wild card spot. However, Ozuna might prefer joining a more competitive team, possibly one within his own National League Central Division.
The Cincinnati Reds, who won 83 games last season and reached the playoffs, are nearly playoff-ready but need more power. Despite posting a below-average 113 OPS+ in 2025, Ozuna would bring the extra pop they need. Rising stars Ellie De La Cruz and Spencer Steer are emerging, while Matt McClain, Noelvi Marte, and TJ Friedl showed promise. Cincinnati ranked 21st in home runs (167) and slugging (.391) last year. Ozuna’s addition would energize the Reds’ middle of the order and help capitalize on the speed and talent of their young core. With a solid pitching staff featuring Hunter Greene, Andrew Abbott, Nick Lodolo, and Brady Singer, Cincinnati just needs Ozuna’s power to balance the roster and further strengthen their playoff chances.
The Texas Rangers, despite missing the playoffs the past two years, boast a talented roster on the brink of success—just two seasons away from a potential World Series title. Ozuna fits perfectly into their timeline. Texas had the best ERA in baseball last season (3.41) and recently added left-hander and 2025 All-Star Mackenzie Gore. However, their offense was middling: 26th in slugging (.381), tied for 26th in on-base percentage (.302), 24th in hits (1,275), 22nd in RBIs (684), and 18th in home runs (175). The acquisitions of second baseman Marcus Semien and Mets outfielder Brandon Nimmo should improve discipline and power, but emerging talents Wyatt Langford, Josh Smith, Josh Jung, and Evan Carter alone won’t be enough.
Following offseason moves—including non-tendering outfielder Adris Garcia, trading players to Washington, and acquiring Gore—the Rangers need all proven performers to support manager Skip Shoemaker’s lineup, with Ozuna locked into the designated hitter role. In the American League West, the Seattle Mariners are one win shy of a World Series title, and the Houston Astros remain strong, though neither is unbeatable. Seattle won only 90 games in 2025, and Houston has not reached 90 wins since 2023. Texas arguably has the best starting rotation in the AL or even MLB and continues to improve overall. Ozuna, who ranked in the top 9% of MLB in average exit velocity in 2024, adds crucial offensive power and clarity to the Rangers, making him a highly likely candidate to join the AL West.
Fan Take: Marcell Ozuna’s potential move signals a pivotal shift for several teams hungry for power and veteran leadership. Baseball fans should watch closely—his presence could reshape playoff races and bring new excitement to both the National and American Leagues.
