The Atlanta Braves are in the midst of one of their most disappointing seasons in recent memory. They currently sit at 29-38 and are nine games behind a wildcard spot. While it’s too early in the season to rule them out, it’s fair to start thinking about who the team may trade away if struggles continue. The most common name being brought up in trade rumors is Marcell Ozuna. The power-hitting designated hitter will garner interest from many contending teams looking to add some pop to their lineup. If the Braves are indeed sellers, Ozuna will likely be moved. However, he isn’t the most prized trade candidate on the Braves; that would be Sean Murphy.
Sean Murphy
The seven-year backstop is one of the best hitting catchers in the game. Throughout Murphy’s career, he’s averaged a .760 OPS. This year, he’s outperforming those numbers with a .784 OPS and nine home runs. On top of the offense, Murphy has graded out as an above-average to elite player on the defensive side. He’s an extremely valuable piece.
Why It Makes Sense to Trade Murphy
With Murphy being such an important asset, it seems a bit strange to ship him away. However, there’s a clear reason they may want to pull the trigger on a good offer. That reason is Drake Baldwin.
Baldwin is a rookie, and he needs to be on the field more. So far this season, he’s hitting .295 with a .830 OPS and seven home runs. Defensively, he ranks in the 77th percentile in run value. The youngster has immense potential, and the Braves need to get him on the field more if he’s going to fully develop.
In addition to Drake Baldwin being the future, the Braves will also pay Murphy a lot of money. Murphy is under contract until 2029, and in that season, he will have a club option. He will make $15 million each year in his current deal. While this is a pretty reasonable deal for a catcher of Murphy’s caliber, the Braves could turn the position over to a cheaper and younger player in Baldwin.
Odds the Braves Trade Him
If the Braves are out of the playoff picture near the deadline, they may deal Murphy. It comes down to whether or not they want to hand Baldwin the keys to the future, and what kind of offers they receive.
Even if they are on the fence about moving him, it’s likely that multiple teams offer up significant prospect capital for Sean Murphy. Looking at the playoff contenders, the Padres, Rays, Rangers, Giants, and Cardinals could desperately use upgrades at the catcher position. The league has so few catchers who are plus players in terms of both hitting and fielding. If Murphy is available, these teams should be willing to hand over a lot in a trade to acquire him.
The Braves are in a position to capitalize; potentially landing a strong return, securing their catcher of the future, and steering clear of Murphy’s eventual decline with age. If they pull the trigger on a deal, it could put them in a great spot for years to come.
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