Tue Mar 18 01:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Braves Sign Veteran Catcher James McCann to Minor League Deal

**Atlanta, GA –** The Atlanta Braves have signed veteran catcher James McCann to a minor league contract, the team announced late Friday. This move comes on the heels of releasing Curt Casali and reassigning Sandy León to minor league camp. The signing provides crucial depth at catcher as starting catcher Sean Murphy is expected to begin the season on the injured list.

Currently, only Murphy and backup Chadwick Tromp are on the Braves’ 40-man roster. The addition of McCann addresses this shortage, although the team’s top prospect, Drake Baldwin, remains the frontrunner to claim the Opening Day starting role. McCann, 34, will reportedly begin the season at Triple-A Gwinnett, giving Baldwin an opportunity to prove himself at the major league level.

While McCann offers veteran leadership and experience, his offensive production has been moderate in recent years (.228/.274/.382 in 134 games over the last two seasons with the Baltimore Orioles). Baldwin, however, boasts a strong spring training performance (.333 average with six walks and two strikeouts in 13 games) and a promising minor league record. The Braves’ decision suggests a cautious approach, allowing Baldwin to gain MLB experience while having a reliable veteran available should he struggle or an injury arise. McCann would then fill the void until Murphy’s return from a broken rib.

The move leaves several scenarios possible: Baldwin could start the season in the majors, potentially splitting time with Tromp, or he may be sent back down after a brief stint, leaving McCann and Tromp to handle catching duties until Murphy’s return. Regardless, the Braves now have a solid safety net behind the plate.

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