The Atlanta Braves catcher Sean Murphy has had a rollercoaster of a career, and 2024 proved to be one of his toughest years yet.
Despite his offensive struggles, Murphy’s name still appeared on MLB Network’s highly anticipated Shredder’s List, landing at No. 9 among the top 10 catchers.
The ranking highlighted what many already know: Murphy’s defense remains elite.
Sean Murphy’s Defensive Keeps Him Among the Elite
MLB Network host Brian Kenny explained the reasoning behind Murphy’s inclusion. “He remains a good defender. He is No. 1 in blocking runs over the last three seasons,” Kenny noted, emphasizing Murphy’s pitch-framing abilities.
Murphy’s skill set was enough to keep him on the list for a position that prioritizes defense, even after a rocky offensive season.
A Season Marred by Injury and Offensive Struggles
Let’s not sugarcoat it—Murphy’s bat was a shadow of its former self in 2024. He was sidelined early in the season due to an oblique injury sustained on Opening Day against the Phillies.
After a two-month absence, he struggled to regain his rhythm, finishing the season with a .193 batting average and a .636 OPS over 72 games. His power numbers dipped, too, as he managed just 10 home runs and 25 RBIs.
This performance marked a steep drop from his impressive 2023 campaign when he earned an All-Star nod by hitting .251 with a .844 OPS, a career-high 21 home runs, and 68 RBIs.
The Contreras Comparison and Murphy’s Redemption Potential
That season solidified the Braves’ belief that they had landed a cornerstone catcher in a blockbuster three-team trade, which saw former Braves catcher William Contreras head to Milwaukee.
Ironically, Contreras has since flourished with the Brewers, posting a monster 2024 season with a .281 average, .831 OPS, and 23 home runs.
He topped The Shredder’s list at No. 1, jumping from fifth place in 2023. Sean Murphy, ranked third last offseason, saw his stock tumble due to his offensive woes.
Murphy’s defensive metrics remain stellar, and with a healthy offseason, he could regain his form at the plate.
His spot on The Shredder’s List proves he’s still among the game’s top catchers, and the Braves likely hope he’ll reward their faith by bouncing back in 2025.
Meanwhile, MLB Network will continue unveiling its top 10 lists, showcasing more Braves stars in the weeks ahead.
