The Braves need a jolt of energy, and it could come in the form of reinforcements. Spencer Strider and Ronald Acuna Jr. cannot get back to Atlanta soon enough, but Sean Murphy is much closer to returning.

Murphy went 1-for-4 on Tuesday with the Stripers in his first rehab stint, and as soon as he plays back-to-back days, he’ll be activated. A potential spark from Murphy cannot be understated, both offensively and defensively.

However, a decision has to be made about Drake Baldwin when that happens. The organization’s top prospect was thrust into a starting role when Murphy cracked his rib, and while the surface-level numbers suggest he could use a little more seasoning in Triple-A Gwinnett, the underlying metrics tell a different story.

His approach at the plate is necessary for a Braves lineup that features a ton of swing-for-the-fences hitters. Baldwin should stick in Atlanta, and thankfully, it seems that’ll be the case. According to Mark Bowman, it’s “likely” that Baldwin will stay up and share catching duties.

Sean Murphy went 1-for-4 with a homer for Gwinnett today. Once he plays back-to-back days, he’ll likely be activated. Could be this weekend. Baldwin would likely stay up to share the catching duties. But that’s not official yet.

— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) April 2, 2025

A lot of Braves fans have seemingly taken sides in this position “battle,” but having two good catchers is never a bad thing. Sean Murphy and Drake Baldwin can coexist with one another. It doesn’t have to be either-or; neither can catch 162 games.

Let’s just hope the Braves can quickly overcome this horrid start to the season. Reinforcements like Murphy, Acuna, and Strider cannot return soon enough.

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Photographer: Larry Radloff/Icon Sportswire