Sean Murphy will experience a bad taste of déjà vu after being sidelined for Major League Baseball 2025. The Atlanta Braves catcher could miss up to six weeks of action due to a cracked rib after being hit by a pitch during their Grapefruit League victory over the Miami Marlins. Despite that hit, he stayed in the game to catch.
Braves manager Brian Snitker confirmed the news, adding that it’s something they don’t want their players, especially those with solid work ethic and a commendable attitude, to experience injuries. While Murphy’s return is uncertain, it’s sure that he will miss the Braves’ opener for the second consecutive year.
After missing the first two months of the 2024 MLB season, Murphy batted .193 with a .636 OPS, ten home runs, and 25 RBIs in 264 plate appearances over 72 games. Meanwhile, his absence could open an opportunity for the Braves to see more of Drake Baldwin, even if he will likely begin the season at Triple-A. Baldwin batted .276 with 16 home runs and 88 RBIs across the minors last year.
In addition to Baldwin, Chadwick Tromp, Sandy Leon, and Curt Casali could have their chances to become the Braves’ catcher.
-Lance Fernandez