The Atlanta Braves face a critical decision as they head into the 2025 season with just one catcher from their 2024 roster: Sean Murphy. With the departure of Travis d’Arnaud, the team must address the significant gap behind the plate. While there are various ways to tackle this issue, the most logical solution appears to be exploring the free-agent market or pursuing a trade.
Former Braves radio pregame and postgame host Kevin McAlpin weighed in on the matter during an appearance on Foul Territory. McAlpin strongly advised against promoting prospect Drake Baldwin to a backup role. As a promising young player, Baldwin would benefit more from consistent playing time at Triple-A than from limited appearances in the majors.
“I don’t think you bring up that young guy not to get playing time,” McAlpin explained. “You want him to play every day in Triple-A so when he does come up, to potentially be the everyday guy, he’s gonna get those reps.” Chadwick Tromp, who saw action in 19 games for the Braves last season, hasn’t emerged as a viable in-house solution. Given these limitations, McAlpin suggested that signing or trading for a catcher makes the most sense.
One intriguing free-agent option mentioned during the discussion is Kyle Higashioka, a former San Diego Padre who left a memorable impression in the 2024 Wild Card series against the Braves. Higashioka hit two home runs in that series, showcasing his ability to deliver power in key moments. Throughout the season, he posted a .220/.263/.476 slash line with 17 home runs and 46 RBIs in 84 games.
While his defensive metrics dipped slightly in 2024, committing nine errors, Higashioka still managed a positive defensive run saved (DRS) rating of 1. His strengths align with the Braves’ historical preference for defensively skilled catchers, though McAlpin noted that the departure of catching coach Sal Fasano could signal a shift in philosophy. “I just wonder if that changes their philosophy going forward,” McAlpin remarked.
Whether the Braves ultimately pursue Higashioka or explore other options, their approach this offseason will reveal much about their immediate plans. With the catcher position being such a pivotal role, fans and analysts alike will closely watch to see how Atlanta addresses this pressing need.
