Drake Baldwin’s Rookie Success Creates Catcher Conundrum in Atlanta
Drake Baldwin’s impressive rookie campaign last season has presented the Atlanta Braves with a delightful dilemma. With Baldwin earning the coveted Rookie of the Year award, the team now boasts two formidable options behind the plate, both of whom are capable of handling everyday responsibilities. However, despite Baldwin’s accolades, the Braves are not fully committing to him as their sole long-term solution at catcher.
Shared Responsibilities Ahead
General manager Alex Anthopoulos recently shared insights on the Braves’ plans moving forward. According to him, the organization is set on utilizing Travis d’Arnaud, allowing him to split time with Baldwin both at catcher and designated hitter. This strategy not only aims to maximize Baldwin’s playing time but also accounts for d’Arnaud’s established presence and experience.
The Braves’ current approach hinges significantly on d’Arnaud’s rehabilitation progress. Anthopoulos mentioned that they would have a clearer picture of d’Arnaud’s recovery by January, but the intent is clear: both catchers will see action, sharing at-bats as needed, unless the team opts to bring in a dedicated designated hitter.
Future Implications
The decision to potentially add a designated hitter could further complicate the equation. If d’Arnaud is ahead of schedule in his recovery, the Braves might forego pursuing an external DH option, keeping the focus on maximizing the contributions of both Baldwin and d’Arnaud. As the offseason unfolds, the Braves’ strategy will likely continue to evolve, but for now, the emphasis remains on balancing playing time between two talented catchers.
With Baldwin’s rapid ascent and d’Arnaud’s seasoned skill set, Atlanta finds itself in a unique position—one that could shape their lineup for years to come.
