Former Miami Marlins All-Star first baseman Garrett Cooper has agreed to a minor league contract with the Atlanta Braves, according to a report from Robert Murray of Fansided. Murray also notes that Cooper will receive an invitation to spring training.
Cooper played six seasons with the Marlins and earned an All-Star selection in 2022, when he posted a .261 batting average and a .337 on-base percentage. In 2023, he hit 17 home runs, including 14 with the Marlins before being traded to the San Diego Padres late in the year.
Over his eight-year career, Cooper has also played for the Chicago Cubs, New York Yankees, and Boston Red Sox. He owns a career .265 batting average, with 57 home runs and 233 RBIs.
In Atlanta, Cooper faces a tough challenge for playing time, with Matt Olson firmly entrenched at first base. However, the Braves’ experience with injuries to key players like Ronald Acuña Jr., Ozzie Albies, and Austin Riley in 2024 highlights the value of added depth.
The Braves, who finished second in the National League East last season, made it to the playoffs but were eliminated by the Padres in the wild card round. They are expected to be competitive again in 2025, though they will deal with challenges, including the loss of starting pitcher Charlie Morton to free agency and the absence of Acuña Jr. (torn ACL) and Spencer Strider (Tommy John surgery) for part of the season.
For the Marlins, Cooper is just one of many key players who have departed the organization, joining the likes of Jon Berti, Jake Burger, Jesús Luzardo, Tanner Scott, Jazz Chisholm Jr., and Jor
ge Soler.
