Simply glancing at the Atlanta Braves box score would offer little insight into how impressive Drake Baldwin has been in the team's first two games. Baldwin is 0/7 and is still searching for the first hit of his career. However, Baldwin's at-bats have been impressive with the catcher scorching the ball for three unfortunate outs.
The lack of offensive production in the season's first two games isn't alarming as long as Baldwin doesn't let the poor luck get in his head.
The exact approach Baldwin is taking needs to remain, and Atlanta will have the potential for an offensive force at catcher with the duo of Baldwin and Sean Murphy. Baldwin has shown nice patience at the plate, battling and putting consistent swings. Twice, Baldwin has hammered a ball up the middle only for it to bounce off the pitcher for an out. This is the type of poor luck that will even out as the season continues.
Drake Baldwin off to a Solid Start Despite Still Searching for First Career Hit
While Baldwin is still in search of his first career hit, the catcher has been great behind the plate. Calling a great game for both Chris Sale and Reynaldo Lopez and throwing out his first runner in a key spot during Friday night's game.
The offensive production will come for Baldwin as long as the approach doesn't change. For Atlanta, this is the one concern that Baldwin begins to press due to the poor luck in the first two games of the season. It wouldn't be surprising to see Atlanta give the rookie a game off and give veteran backup Chadwick Tromp a look. With the pending return of Sean Murphy, the Braves will want to evaluate both catchers and decide if Baldwin is ready to make the jump or would better benefit from having everyday at-bats with Gwinnett.
If the first two games are any indication, Baldwin is ready to make the transition and will be an answer for the Braves for many seasons to come.