Spring training is rolling along, and down in Florida, the Atlanta Braves are getting plenty of reps as they inch closer to Opening Day.
These exhibition games don’t count, but they do offer a glimpse into who’s looking sharp, who’s making a case for a roster spot, and who might need a little extra work before the real action begins.
So far, Atlanta’s camp has been filled with promising signs. Though, as always, there have been a few bumps along the way.
Roster Moves: A Slow Trim Toward 26
The front office continues whittling down the roster as the Braves’ regulars ramp up their workload. The latest cut? Infielder José Devers, cousin of Red Sox star Rafael Devers.
That leaves 48 players still in camp, all vying for one of the coveted 26 spots on the roster for Opening Day in San Diego on March 27.
While there’s still time for bubble players to make their case, every game matters a little more now as decision time looms.
Braves Country Road Trip is Back
In off-the-field news, the Braves are once again bringing the fan experience on the road with their popular Braves Country Road Trip.
This year’s tour includes 25 stops across the Southeast. It’s giving fans plenty of opportunities to soak up some Braves excitement before the season gets underway.
This year’s road trip also doubles as a promotional push for the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, which will be held in Atlanta. Fans hitting up these events can expect plenty of All-Star-themed hype and giveaways, including hats, pennants, stickers, and koozies.
Nothing like a freebie to show off your Braves pride, right?
Sean Murphy’s Injury: A Tough Break, But No Panic
One of the more unfortunate developments from Braves camp is the rib injury to catcher Sean Murphy. He took a 95 mph fastball to the side.
Murphy, who has a knack for being a magnet to baseballs, is no stranger to taking a hit. But, this one will force him onto the injured list to start the season.
Speaking to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Murphy called it “just bad luck” and is taking it in stride. There is no frustration, no panic—just a minor setback.
Given that he was looking to rebound from a tough 2024 season, this isn’t ideal. It doesn’t sound like it’ll be a long-term issue thankfully.
In the meantime, top-catching prospect Drake Baldwin is stepping in to handle duties behind the plate.
He’s already gotten some high-pressure reps, catching projected Opening Day starter Chris Sale, who gave Baldwin a solid review afterward. That’s a good sign for a young player getting an early shot in the big leagues.
Murphy will be back soon enough, and don’t be surprised if he returns with something to prove. A little extra motivation never hurt, and if there’s one thing Braves fans know, it’s that a determined Sean Murphy is a dangerous one.
Braves Dialing Roster in Before Opening Day
With a little over three weeks until Opening Day, the Braves are in a solid spot.
Now it’s just about staying healthy, making those final roster calls, and getting everything in place for what could be another exciting season in Atlanta.
