Braves sign World Series catcher as potential Drake Baldwin backup amid Sean Murphy rehab

Hunter Cookston

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Braves sign World Series catcher as potential Drake Baldwin backup amid Sean Murphy rehab image

The Atlanta Braves are making all the right moves so far this offseason, and there is a growing sense that GM Alex Anthopoulos is nearing the finish line. However, Braves rookie Drake Baldwin winning NL Rookie of the Year has likely pushed Sean Murphy out of a guaranteed starting role. Murphy also chose to hide an injury until the end of the season, which reportedly strained relationships within the clubhouse.

“Sean Murphy's struggles over the past month were likely influenced by the right hip ailment that will be surgically repaired later this week,” MLB.com’s Mark Bowman wrote.

With a new manager in place, Murphy may not receive the same opportunities he had under Brian Snitker. The former Braves manager was known as a players’ manager, but Walt Weiss could take a different approach.

“Ozzie Albies and Sean Murphy are great examples of players who haven't lived up to expectations over the last two years and still remained in the lineup. It is easy to see a new manager lacking this same patience with failing pieces. This is especially the case with players who have already been on thin ice for more than two seasons,” ATL All Day’s Nick Halden wrote.

On Wednesday, the Braves brought in retired World Series–winning catcher Martin Maldonado, potentially as a backup option behind Baldwin.

“While Maldonado can still play as a backup, the Braves aren’t planning to use him in that capacity at this time. If they do, he is certainly someone Baldwin could learn from while Murphy continues to rehab. Again, not something they’re planning to do right now,” The Athletic’s David O’Brien wrote.

While it would take an interesting set of circumstances for Maldonado to back up Baldwin, the move could still work in the Braves’ favor. At the very least, Baldwin would have a veteran presence in the clubhouse to offer guidance and leadership.

If Murphy’s recovery takes longer than expected, the Braves won’t hesitate to explore their options. Anthopoulos continues to make the right moves—big or small—to position Atlanta for success this winter.

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