The Atlanta Braves have bolstered their catching depth by signing veteran Curt Casali to a minor-league deal, according to Aram Leighton of Just Baseball. Casali, an 11-year MLB veteran, most recently played 41 games with the San Francisco Giants last season. While his offensive numbers are modest—he holds a career .218 batting average with 48 home runs over 543 games—Casali is recognized for his defensive reliability and ability to step in as a starter when needed.
This signing addresses a key area of concern for the Braves after the departure of Travis d’Arnaud to the Los Angeles Dodgers. With Sean Murphy firmly established as the primary catcher, the backup role remains up for grabs. Casali brings experience and stability, making him a viable option should Murphy need time off or suffer an injury during the season.
Another candidate for the backup role is Chadwick Tromp, who has served as the Braves’ third catcher for several years. Tromp has proven capable of handling backup duties, giving the team flexibility and familiarity behind the plate. His presence provides a dependable internal option for the organization.
The Braves also have a promising young prospect in Drake Baldwin, who is patiently awaiting his major-league opportunity. Baldwin could make a strong case for a roster spot with an impressive showing in Spring Training. However, the Braves may prioritize his long-term development by keeping him in Gwinnett, where he can gain consistent playing time instead of limited opportunities in Atlanta.
With these options in place, the Braves appear well-prepared to address the backup catcher position. Casali’s signing adds depth and experience, while internal options like Tromp and Baldwin offer flexibility and potential for the future. As Spring Training approaches, the competition for the role will be one of the key storylines to watch.
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