MLB’s hot stove season is starting to heat up. Day two of the winter meetings has featured several key free agency signings across the league. The Atlanta Braves made a small move yesterday by signing James Karinchak to a minor-league deal, but more will need to be done this offseason by Atlanta’s front office if they want to keep pace with other NL contenders.
One way Atlanta could improve its roster, especially the backend of the bullpen, is by way of a trade. There have been some speculative rumors that the Braves may be willing to move on from catcher Sean Murphy due to Drake Baldwin’s Rookie of the Year campaign. Could the San Diego Padres be a suitor?
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Braves Trade Idea Offloads Sean Murphy
The San Diego Padres may lose several players to free agency this offseason, but that doesn’t mean AJ Preller will be any less aggressive in the trade market.
In this trade idea, the San Diego Padres acquire Sean Murphy and his six-year, $73 million contract in exchange for Wandy Peralta and prospect Bradgley Rodriguez.
This trade idea works based on what both sides need this offseason. The Padres have been searching for a catcher with power upside for several years, and the Braves need a bullpen arm who can provide length, durability, and innings.
GettySean Murphy of the Atlanta Braves
Sean Murphy was named an All-Star back in 2023 after the Braves acquired him from the Athletics. He’s had some trouble staying on the field since then, but when he is playing, he runs into a home run from time to time.
In 2025, Murphy hit 16 home runs in 94 games. However, he’s also hit below .200 in both 2024 and 2025.
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What Would Wandy Peralta Bring to Atlanta?
Last season, the Braves’ bullpen was a true detriment to their team, and it held them back in many games.
San Diego exercised the option on Wandy Peralta’s contract this offseason. In a Padres bullpen that is loaded with quality arms, Peralta falls under the radar a little bit. This past season, he posted a 3.14 ERA in 71.2 innings and 71 appearances.
After a somewhat rough start to his career, Peralta really started to flourish into a quality bullpen option during his time with the Yankees from 2021-2023.
By no means would this be the flashiest trade ever, but if the Braves are set on having Drake Baldwin be the everyday catcher, then there’s no reason to hold onto Murphy, and the front office could flip him for an arm that helps the pitching staff with depth and obtain a prospect to help rebuild the farm system.
As MLB’s Winter Meetings progress, keep an eye out for Sean Murphy trade rumors to continue to grow.
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