The Atlanta Braves will be without All-Star catcher for the next few weeks as the 30-year-old recovers from a cracked rib. Given the physically demanding nature of the catcher position, it’s uncertain when Sean Murphy will be ready to return. Although the Braves have not yet made a move to replace their star catcher, they still have time to address the situation if needed.
Bleacher Report’s Zachary Rymer recently predicted that the Braves would sign veteran catcher James McCann, who played for the Baltimore Orioles last season. According to Spotrac, McCann is expected to sign a $3 million deal in free agency. Rymer noted that both McCann and Yasmani Grandal remain viable options at catcher, with Grandal having strong framing skills and some power, while McCann’s .667 OPS with the Orioles in 2024 was respectable for a catcher. Rymer also mentioned that Grandal reportedly declined an offer from the Braves, leaving McCann as a likely target.
McCann, 34, hit .234/.279/.388 with eight home runs and nine doubles over 65 games last season. As a free agent, he could likely be signed for less than $5 million. With Murphy sidelined, the Braves need to strengthen their catching depth, and McCann presents a more reliable option than rushing prospect Drake Baldwin to the majors. While Baldwin appears close to being MLB-ready, promoting him too soon could hinder his development. Therefore, signing McCann would be a more prudent move until Murphy returns.
