In a significant shift during the 2024 AFL free agency period, Josh Battle has officially left St Kilda to sign a six-year deal with the Hawthorn Hawks. Known for his defensive prowess and versatility, Battle has decided to make this career-defining move after eight seasons with the Saints, marking one of the biggest free agency moves of the year.
This move comes as part of a broader trend of player movement during a particularly active 2024 trade period, as clubs jostle for key positions ahead of the 2025 AFL season. But why did Battle choose Hawthorn, and what does this mean for both teams involved?
Why Josh Battle Chose Hawthorn
After playing 123 games for St Kilda, Josh Battle grappled with his decision to leave the club. According to Battle, it was the “toughest decision” of his life, as he shared deep ties with his teammates and coaching staff at St Kilda. Ultimately, the prospect of a fresh challenge and a bright future at Hawthorn convinced him that this was the right move for both his career and family.
Hawthorn offered Battle the opportunity to be a key part of their defensive line, a role that would allow him to build on his stellar form from the 2024 season. His new contract at Hawthorn is reportedly worth slightly less than St Kilda’s counter-offer, but the promise of a leading role in a rebuilding team was enough to sway his decision
Impact on Hawthorn Hawks
For Hawthorn, the acquisition of Josh Battle is a strategic move to strengthen their defense and support their young, emerging squad. After a remarkable turnaround in 2024, where they narrowly missed a preliminary final, Battle’s experience will provide the Hawks with much-needed stability at the back.
Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell has been clear about the team’s ambitions, with the club poised to challenge for the premiership in 2025. Battle’s addition complements a side that has been bolstered by youth and energy, making him a perfect fit for Hawthorn’s plans to become a premiership contender once again.
What It Means for St Kilda
The loss of Josh Battle is a significant blow for St Kilda, especially given his consistent form in 2024, where he finished third in the club’s Best and Fairest count While the Saints did their best to retain Battle, offering a competitive deal, they were ultimately unable to keep the talented defender.
In terms of compensation, St Kilda is hopeful that Battle’s departure will result in a first-round draft pick. The exact compensation will depend on the final contract details, but the Saints could secure Pick 8, which would be a valuable asset as they look to rebuild.
Free Agency: The Broader Implications
Josh Battle’s move is just one of many high-profile transfers in what has already been a busy 2024 AFL trade and free agency period. Other key players on the move include Harry Perryman, who is likely to join Collingwood, and Isaac Cumming, who has been tipped to join Adelaide.
This flurry of activity highlights the competitiveness of the 2024 offseason, as clubs attempt to secure key players before the draft in November. With salary caps increasing, clubs are offering lucrative contracts to entice top talent, and Battle’s six-year deal with Hawthorn is a prime example of this trend.
What’s Next for Josh Battle and Hawthorn
Looking ahead, Josh Battle is set to play a critical role in Hawthorn’s defense as they aim for a premiership run in 2025. His versatility—being able to play both as a key defender and in other roles—will allow Hawthorn greater flexibility in their line-up.
Battle himself is eager to start the next chapter of his career. He has praised Ross Lyon and St Kilda for their influence on his career, but now looks forward to building new relationships and contributing to Hawthorn’s bright future.
As for St Kilda, the Saints will now look to the draft and upcoming trade period to fill the void left by Battle’s departure, potentially using the compensation to secure new talent.
Josh Battle’s move from St Kilda to Hawthorn marks a pivotal moment in the 2024 AFL free agency period. It not only reshapes both clubs but also signifies Hawthorn’s intent to build a team capable of competing for the 2025 premiership. As the AFL trade period continues, the impact of Battle’s move and other high-profile transfers will likely have long-term implications for the league.
