Arguably, the most interesting story surrounding the Atlanta Braves is the future of the catcher position. Sean Murphy's offensive struggles from the 2024 season have remained, while rookie Drake Baldwin seems poised to be the Rookie of the Year. The young catcher is hitting .295 and has been a consistent offensive force after a slow start. It isn't just the offensive production for Baldwin, but shockingly great defense and an ability to throw out runners consistently.
This has resulted in an interesting debate with the team unable to keep both players in the lineup. One avenue is trading soon-to-be free agent Marcell Ozuna and putting Baldwin into the DH role. This is obviously only an option if Atlanta's current path continues and no hope of contention exists. For Baldwin, it isn't a question of whether the catcher is going to be taking the starting job but simply a matter of when it will happen. Leading to the possible idea that the Braves could consider trading veteran catcher Sean Murphy.
Braves Deadline Sell Could Include Catcher Sean Murphy
James McCann remains in Atlanta's minor league system and can provide depth at the position in either scenario. The catcher can match Murphy's underwhelming .222 average, even if the power numbers and defensive impact are a clear downgrade. However, any move away from Murphy isn't about McCann, but about clearing the way for the next generation.
It also opens up space for the Braves to go out and attempt to add a much-needed impact bat. Whether this is at the trade deadline or the 2026 offseason, it is increasingly looking as if the team might need to turn the page on Murphy. It makes sense to trade the catcher if you have any plans of retaining Ozuna.
There simply isn't room in the lineup for Murphy's limited offensive production when you have the young talent of Baldwin. Adding in Atlanta's need for lineup upgrades, it paints too clear a picture even for this lost Braves' front office to ignore.
Parting ways with Sean Murphy in the next weeks of the season must become a very real consideration. One that only changes if the catcher begins to show a more consistent level of production at the plate. Otherwise, the team would be wise to move on, putting Baldwin in the lineup more consistently and attempting to find additional offensive answers for a lineup that has brought zero consistency to the 2025 season.