Baseball is back, and we finally have a lineup to dissect. It’s been more than four months since we last saw the Atlanta Braves take the field. Today, they kick off their Grapefruit League schedule with a road matchup against the Minnesota Twins.
Sure, it’s just spring training, but after a long offseason, any baseball is good baseball.
Jarred Kelenic Gets a Big Opportunity
Leading off and playing right field is Jarred Kelenic, a player with a lot to prove in 2025.
With Ronald Acuña Jr. sidelined to start the season, Kelenic has a golden opportunity to show he can be an everyday outfielder. His raw talent has never been in question, but consistency has been elusive.
The Braves are giving him a long look. A strong spring could set him up for a major role in the outfield moving forward.
A Mix of Braves Prospects and Depth Pieces
Nick Allen was acquired from Oakland this winter. He is batting second and playing shortstop. He’s in the mix for a utility role, bringing solid defense but still needing to prove he can contribute offensively.
Meanwhile, the only true Braves regular in today’s lineup is Sean Murphy, who hits third. After an injury-plagued and underwhelming 2024 season, Murphy is looking to bounce back and regain his form as one of baseball’s better two-way catchers.
Then there’s Garrett Cooper, the non-roster invitee and former Marlin, who will bat cleanup. At 33 years old, Cooper aims to impress not just Atlanta but any team needing a veteran bat.
The most exciting name in this lineup might be Drake Baldwin, the highly regarded catching prospect who will serve as the designated hitter and bat fifth.
Baldwin has been earning praise throughout the organization. This is his first chance to show what he can do against Major League competition.
Chris Sale Makes His Spring Debut
The biggest name to watch today is Chris Sale, the reigning NL Cy Young winner, who will take the mound for Atlanta.
Sale is expected to pitch two innings, and while his health will always be a focus, the Braves are hoping for a smooth and dominant start to his spring campaign.
Notably, Murphy is catching today, which is no coincidence—Atlanta is making sure their expected Opening Day battery gets as many reps together as possible.
So, while this might not be the most star-studded lineup, there’s plenty to pay attention to as the Braves begin their 2025 campaign.
