The Atlanta Braves surprised many by cutting ties with veteran catcher Travis d’Arnaud. After five seasons of solid play and respected leadership, d’Arnaud’s departure leaves a noticeable gap. Letting go of a 36-year-old catcher isn’t inherently odd in the MLB, however.
The move signals a shift in priorities for Atlanta, particularly with the $8 million he was due next season now freed up. This has sparked speculation about who might step in. Top prospect Drake Baldwin is emerging as a popular suggestion. But is Baldwin the real solution?
The Case for Baldwin
Drake Baldwin had a strong showing in the minors last year. He finished with a .793 OPS and earning praise from scouts. His promotion feels like a natural progression as a potential long-term answer at catcher.
The idea of a homegrown prospect stepping into an important role is appealing, especially for a franchise that values internal development. Baldwin replacing d’Arnaud seems like a logical next step on paper. However, the situation isn’t as straightforward as it seems. Sean Murphy complicates the equation as the Braves’ current starting catcher.
The Murphy Factor Post d’Arnaud
Sean Murphy struggled throughout the 2024 season. Injuries and a drop in performance frustrated fans and created doubts about his ability to anchor the position. Despite these challenges, his prior success as one of the league’s top all-around catchers can’t be ignored. Atlanta has invested heavily in Murphy financially and strategically which makes it unlikely they’ll pivot away after one down year.
The team’s focus will likely be on getting Murphy fully healthy. Hamstring and oblique injuries are notorious for lingering, but Murphy could return to form with a productive offseason. Banking on a bounce-back season from him makes sense, especially given the stability and experience he brings when healthy.
Baldwin’s Role: Trade Chip or Starter?
Even if Murphy is the starter, Atlanta still needs a backup catcher. Promoting Baldwin to fill that role comes with risks. A young player like Baldwin needs consistent playing time to develop, something he wouldn’t get as Murphy’s understudy. This raises the question: would Baldwin be better utilized elsewhere?
As a high-profile prospect, Baldwin could be the centerpiece in a trade for an impact player at another position. This route aligns with the Braves’ win-now mindset. It would mean maximizing Baldwin’s value while maintaining stability behind the plate. Promoting Baldwin prematurely could backfire if the rookie struggles or isn’t ready for the spotlight. For a contending team, this could be too risky.
A Likely Path Forward Without d’Arnaud
The Braves are known for making calculated moves. This situation is no different. Instead of rushing Baldwin, they may opt to sign a lower-cost veteran to back up Murphy. This would give the team a dependable catching duo while leaving Baldwin available for a potential trade or further development.
Atlanta’s focus on proven experience and another championship likely means a more patient approach. Baldwin’s potential makes him an exciting prospect though. For now, the team appears to be betting on Murphy’s resurgence and exploring Baldwin’s value in the trade market.
