The countdown to the opening day has already begun, and an unexpected injury has thrown the Braves’ lineup into chaos. This is something that can severely impact a team’s start to the season. Their All-Star catcher, Sean Murphy, is out with a cracked rib. And now there’s a big question behind the plate. Enter Drake Baldwin, a 23-year-old rising ace who took the most of this opportunity and is now in line to take over Murphy’s role. Well, let’s say at least for the first few weeks of the season. But it’s not going to be a cakewalk. MLB veterans are already warning that this transition will come with its hurdles.

Murphy isn’t just any catcher; he’s a 2023 All-Star and a 2021 Gold Glove winner. His defensive skills and the ability to manage the pitching staff are really essential for the Braves. Baldwin, ranked no. 27 by the athletics, has showcased promise in the minors. However, handling an elite pitching rotation at the major league level? That’s a whole different challenge. The faster he adapts, the better Atlanta’s chances of overcoming this early hurdle.

The Braves will kick off their season against the San Diego Padres on March 27, 2024. If Baldwin secures the spot, it’ll be a real trial by fire. As he tries to prove he belongs, each pitch, throw, and decision will be scrutinized. This isn’t just about surviving; it’s a huge opportunity to set the standards. If Baldwin gets a nod, he could get himself a long haul position on the roster, even when Murphy is back.

So, is Baldwin set to face it all? Well, the Braves fans won’t have to wait too long to find that out.

Baldwin’s breakthrough: ‘like night and day’

Around 3 years ago, the idea of Baldwin being Atlanta’s top prospect, let alone starting on opening day, felt unlikely. He admitted it as well, stating, “I definitely didn’t think I’d be in this spot three years ago,” adding, “It’s pretty cool.” Now let’s fast forward to the present day, 2025. The 23-year-old rising ace now holds the No. 1 position in the Braves’ prospect rankings. And that’s not it. He’s at no. 63 overall on the MLB pipeline’s list.

He’s more than just a promising name. And he proved it as well. His breakout 2024 season at Triple-A Gwinnett, he smashed .298/.891 OPS with 12 home runs. He is a legitimate future icon. It’s not only the offense that is turning heads. Baldwin has substantially improved the plate. He has gained immense praise from the Braves pitchers. “It’s night and day from when he first got called up to Triple-A until now,” said AJ Smith-Shawver.

Reynaldo Lopez, the veteran star, has also been amazed by Baldwin’s pitch framing and receiving skills. Additionally, his ability to hit fastballs really hit them. Baldwin’s 411-foot home run was the hardest hit ball of the event at last summer’s Futures game. That’s not it; he even goes beyond the numbers. His work ethic and leadership qualities have always stood out. Braves starting pitcher Ian Anderson commended his presence in the clubhouse, highlighting how Baldwin is one of the first to arrive and the last to leave. “That goes a long way for that position,” Anderson emphasized.

Braves manager Brian Snitker has observed his firm improvement, mentioning, “You can see what everybody is talking about.” Moreover, Baldwin’s consistent defensive growth represents that he’s preparing for the big leagues in all aspects. Baldwin might get his shot earlier than planned, with Sean Murphy unavailable at the season’s beginning. One thing is for sure: there are no more speculations around Baldwin’s rise; it’s happening, big time!