The Braves face limited flexibility this offseason, with many key players tied to long-term contracts, yet they have several pressing needs to address. The rotation might require attention if Max Fried and Charlie Morton leave, and the bullpen could benefit from an additional left-handed pitcher with A.J. Minter’s free agency approaching. The outfield also needs significant reinforcement, whether that means acquiring a couple of regulars for left and right field or a combination of options, largely depending on Ronald Acuña Jr.’s availability.
Replacing Orlando Arcia is a top priority for many Braves fans this offseason, but finding a suitable upgrade at an affordable cost may prove challenging. Options are scarce, and Alex Anthopoulos typically avoids bidding wars during free agency. The most likely scenario is that Arcia remains in the Opening Day lineup.
Aside from that, Anthopoulos may have limited options this winter. However, could there be an unconventional move in the works? Perhaps a trade involving Sean Murphy? Let’s explore that possibility.
Before diving in, it’s important to note that a Sean Murphy trade is unlikely. The Braves invested significantly in Murphy when they acquired him two years ago, and selling low on him would be poor business. Furthermore, his 2024 season was hampered by injuries and inconsistencies, which may not reflect his true potential. Still, let’s entertain the idea for a moment.
The Braves currently have an abundance of catchers, reminiscent of their past situation with Travis d’Arnaud, William Contreras, and Shea Langeliers. Eventually, the team traded the two younger catchers for Murphy and Matt Olson.
There might be some regret regarding the Contreras trade, which could open the door for a Murphy deal. Despite a disappointing offensive season, Murphy is an elite defensive catcher, capable of getting hot at the plate, and remains under team control through 2028, with a club option for 2029. If Anthopoulos considers it, there would likely be interest in Murphy. This hypothetical scenario heavily depends on the Braves’ perspective on Drake Baldwin, their top prospect, who is on the verge of the majors. They could use Baldwin as trade leverage, but if they see him as a future star, someone will have to go, making Murphy the most logical choice.
However, the main concern with Baldwin isn’t his batting; it’s his ability to call a game, which is a complex skill that can’t be mastered in just one offseason. The Braves prioritize defensive skills behind the plate, which is why they originally acquired Sean Murphy.
Therefore, relying solely on Drake Baldwin might be premature, but this situation will need to be addressed eventually.