The Los Angeles Angels made a game-changing move this offseason, signing a catcher who could revolutionize their defense and energize their fanbase. Meanwhile, the team that let him go the Atlanta Braves should be kicking themselves.
Travis d’Arnaud, a proven leader and highly respected baseball mind, saw his $8 million club option declined by the Braves after the 2024 season. Atlanta, in an effort to shed payroll (similar to their rationale behind trading Jorge Soler), let him walk for what amounts to pocket change in baseball economics. The Angels wasted no time swooping in, securing d’Arnaud on a two-year, $12 million deal a decision that already looks like a steal.
Now, the Braves are paying the price. Their primary catcher, Sean Murphy, recently suffered a fractured rib, sidelining him for 4-6 weeks. Murphy struggled with injuries last season as well, and when he did return, his performance was dismal posting a slash line of .193/.284/.352 and an uninspiring 78 wRC+. While Murphy edged out d’Arnaud in bWAR, d’Arnaud posted a superior fWAR and outperformed Murphy in nearly every relevant statistical category in 2024. Despite Atlanta’s platoon system, d’Arnaud was clearly their most reliable backstop.
With Murphy out, the Braves now have to rely on Chadwick Tromp a solid defensive catcher with a weak bat and 23-year-old top prospect Drake Baldwin, who is talented but unproven at the major league level. Contending teams rarely place such heavy responsibility on a young catcher, making Atlanta’s situation even more precarious. Adding to their woes, they also lost long-time catching coach Sal Fasano, who has since joined the Angels’ staff to work with their pitchers.
Meanwhile, d’Arnaud is thriving in Los Angeles. He’s saying all the right things, expressing his desire to help Logan O’Hoppe become the greatest catcher in Angels history. He’s flashing his power in camp, stabilizing the pitching staff, and bringing an infectious energy that this franchise desperately needed. Beyond his on-field performance, d’Arnaud is a fan favorite his charismatic personality and playful approach to the game make him a joy to watch.
For a relatively modest contract, the Angels may have landed one of the most impactful players of the offseason both on and off the field. As for the Braves, they may be left wondering how they let such a valuable asset slip away.
