Braves top prospect poised for major 2025 breakout amid Sean Murphy injury concerns
Will Drake Baldwin get the call up in 2025?
The Atlanta Braves’ prospect pool appears primed to make significant contributions in 2025, particularly behind the plate, as Drake Baldwin emerges as a standout candidate poised for a major league breakout. Baldwin’s rapid ascent through the minors, highlighted by his impressive performance in the Arizona Fall League, positions him as a critical asset, especially given the ongoing injury concerns surrounding starting catcher Sean Murphy.
Murphy’s early season struggles with a strained oblique, which sidelined him for two months, exposed a gap in the Braves’ catching depth, initially filled by journeyman Chadwick Tromp. While Tromp provided a temporary solution, Baldwin’s development and recent exploits suggest he could soon become a more permanent fixture. His stint in the Arizona Fall League, where he batted .310 and logged an .892 OPS across seven games, underscores his readiness to step up.
Baldwin, a 23-year-old third-round pick from Missouri State University in 2022, has consistently improved at each level of the minors. His trajectory was particularly notable at Triple-A Gwinnett, where he adjusted his approach under hitting coach Dan DeMent. Baldwin thrived, hitting .298 with 12 homers and an .891 OPS over 72 games, starkly contrasting his earlier struggles at Double-A.
The Braves seem to be poised at the catcher position for 2025
“The way he’s played, he’s definitely a phone call away at this point,” Braves’ president of baseball operations, Alex Anthopoulos, emphasized in an article from David O’Brien of the Athletic. Anthopoulos also highlighted the complexities of the catching role, which extends beyond offensive production to include game planning and handling advanced analytics—a steep learning curve for any young catcher.
Despite the potential for Baldwin to spend another year at Triple-A to refine his skills, his rapid development and offensive capabilities make him an attractive option should injuries once again impact the Braves’ catching corps. Anthopoulos praised Baldwin’s progress and potential, stating, “He’s one of the best prospects in the organization. He’s one of the best prospects in the game. That goes without saying.”
The Braves face a strategic decision regarding their catching future. With Tromp also returning to Triple-A and eligible for arbitration for the first time after showing some promise in 2024, the Braves are well-equipped at the position. However, Baldwin’s standout performances and high ceiling could see him leapfrog Tromp in the pecking order, particularly if Murphy or veteran Travis d’Arnaud face further fitness issues.
As the 2025 season approaches, the Braves’ management of their catching prospects will be crucial. Ensuring Baldwin receives adequate development time while also preparing him for potential major league duties will be a delicate balance. Yet, with his impressive minor league track record and Anthopoulos’s endorsement, it seems Baldwin is on the cusp of breaking into the major leagues, ready to make an impact for Atlanta.
Brayden Haena is an Associate Editor at ClutchPoints. Brayden is a football and baseball fanatic who channels his enthusiasm through his podcast. His commitment to sports journalism is evident in his diverse experiences with ContraCosta.news.
Leave a Reply