Drake Baldwin Forces Braves Into Tough Decision With Latest Power Surge

It was Baldwin’s third homer in his past seven starts, and it capped off a stretch where he’s hit safely in 10 of his last 11 games, slashing .378 (14-for-37) with four multi-hit outings.

The problem? Baldwin rarely plays.

Despite his productivity, the 24-year-old backstop is averaging just 1-2 starts per week, stuck behind veteran Sean Murphy, who remains one of the league’s best defensive catchers and a steady force at the plate himself. And unlike other young prospects, Baldwin doesn’t have positional versatility to fall back on — he’s a catcher, period.

It’s a good problem to have for Atlanta, but one the front office can’t afford to ignore. The Braves’ offense has been sluggish, scoring four runs or fewer in seven straight games — the kind of stretch that demands bold solutions. And Baldwin might be exactly that.

While Murphy isn’t going anywhere, Baldwin’s bat may force manager Brian Snitker to explore more creative options — like DH opportunities, or even pairing the two behind the plate more evenly. The Braves have long relied on patience with prospects. But this one may be ready right now.

And if he keeps hitting like this? They won’t be able to keep him on the bench much longer.