The Atlanta Braves are facing a challenge behind the plate as catcher Sean Murphy is expected to miss four to six weeks due to a rib injury. With Murphy and Chadwick Tromp the only catchers on the 40-man roster, the Braves are considering adding a veteran catcher ahead of Opening Day. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the team is weighing two potential free-agent options: Yasmani Grandal and James McCann. Both players are unsigned and could likely be acquired on a one-year deal worth just a few million dollars.
The Braves must assess whether the cost of adding a veteran is worthwhile, especially if Murphy’s absence turns out to be short. Adding a catcher would also complicate the roster, as Tromp is out of options and a move will be necessary once Murphy returns.
Grandal and McCann’s Backgrounds
Grandal, a switch-hitter, played 72 games for the Pittsburgh Pirates last season, posting a .228/.304/.400 line in 243 plate appearances. This was his best offensive output since his 23-homer season with the White Sox in 2021.
Known for his pitch-framing skills, Grandal remains strong in that area. However, he struggled with passed balls, allowing five in 560 1/3 innings. He also threw out only six of 72 base stealers (8.3%) and had the slowest pop time among 83 qualified catchers, per Statcast.
Braves Considering Free Agent Catchers After Sean Murphy Injury
McCann had successful seasons with the Chicago White Sox in 2019 and 2020, earning a four-year, $40.6 million contract with the New York Mets. However, his offensive performance declined, and the Mets traded him to the Baltimore Orioles in December 2022, covering much of his remaining salary.
Over the past two seasons, McCann hit .228/.274/.382 in 459 plate appearances and 134 games. Despite offensive struggles, McCann’s ability to handle more than just a backup role allowed the Orioles to keep Adley Rutschman in the lineup as a designated hitter.
A High-Upside Option in Drake Baldwin
In addition to Grandal and McCann, the Braves also have a promising option in Drake Baldwin. A top catching prospect, Baldwin hit .276/.370/.423 with 16 homers between Double-A and Triple-A last season. He spent over half the year at Triple-A Gwinnett and will turn 24 just after Opening Day. Baldwin could make his debut this season and possibly earn a starting role, allowing Tromp to remain as the backup catcher.
