Austin Machado signs free agent contract with Atlanta Braves

Austin Machado, who led the University of Hawaii baseball team with a .351 batting average last season, has agreed to a free agent contract with the Atlanta Braves.

Machado wasn’t selected in this week’s 20-round Major League Baseball draft for first-year players. But shortly afterward, he got a call from the Braves.

“I thought it would be a great opportunity,” said Machado, who agreed to a two-year contract. “I’m excited to start working with them.”

After three years at St. John’s University, Machado transferred to UH in August 2023. He was used as a catcher and designated hitter. Machado led the ‘Bows with 48 RBIs. He drew 38 walks and was hit by pitches eight times against 23 strikeouts.

Machado, who throws right-handed but hits left-handed, should be competitive as a catcher in the Braves organization.

On Saturday, Machado will travel from his home in San Diego to the Braves’ training facility in North Port, Fla. He said practice begins Sunday.

“It’s a pretty quick change,” Machado said. “Hopefully they’ll bring me to one of their affiliate teams, which would be pretty cool.”

Machado decided not to participate in any of the summer leagues.

“I was just training, getting stronger, trying to improve my body,” he said.

Machado was born and raised in San Diego. His uncle is surfing champion Rob Machado. He said he grew up a “die-hard (San Diego) Padres fan, because I’m from there. (…) I’m definitely a Braves fan now.”