What's Happening?
The Atlanta Braves have signed catcher Jonah Heim to a one-year contract. Heim, who was previously with the Texas Rangers, was non-tendered earlier in the offseason after a challenging 2025 season where
he posted a batting average of .213 with a .271 on-base percentage and a .332 slugging percentage over 433 plate appearances. His defensive performance has also seen a decline over the past two years. Despite these setbacks, Heim is expected to compete for a spot as the backup catcher behind Drake Baldwin, especially as Sean Murphy is recovering from a hip injury.
Why It's Important?
This signing is significant for the Braves as they look to bolster their catching options. With Sean Murphy's recovery from a hip injury, the team needs reliable backup options, and Heim's experience could prove valuable. For Heim, this contract represents an opportunity to revitalize his career after being non-tendered by the Rangers. The move also highlights the Braves' strategy to strengthen their roster depth, particularly in the catcher position, which is crucial for managing pitching staff and defensive plays.
What's Next?
Jonah Heim will likely participate in the Braves' spring training, where he will aim to secure his position as the backup catcher. His performance during this period will be critical in determining his role for the upcoming season. The Braves will monitor Sean Murphy's recovery closely, as his return will impact the team's catching dynamics. Additionally, the Braves may continue to explore other roster adjustments to enhance their competitiveness in the upcoming MLB season.
