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Sean Murphy’s Power Surge Has Turned Braves Offense Around

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jeremy Lockett | Last updated Apr 13, 2025 1:23 PM ET

The Atlanta Braves offense had been searching for a spark—and it may have found it in Sean Murphy’s return.

After missing the start of the season with an cracked left rib after being hit by a pitch in Spring Training, Murphy rejoined the lineup in early April and wasted no time making his presence felt. In his first four games back, the veteran catcher has slugged three home runs and posted a jaw-dropping .933 slugging percentage. It’s the kind of jolt Atlanta desperately needed after a sluggish offensive stretch, and it’s a reminder of just how valuable Murphy is when healthy.

Murphy’s ability to change a game with one swing isn’t new. He mashed 21 homers in 108 games last season and posted the highest OPS of his career (.843). But what’s remarkable about this surge is how quickly he’s shaken off the rust. The timing, the power, the pitch recognition—it’s all there, and opposing pitchers are already paying the price.

Beyond his offense, Murphy’s defensive value remains elite. He’s widely regarded as one of the better framers and game callers in baseball, helping stabilize a Braves pitching staff that’s dealt with early injuries and inconsistency.

His return also gives manager Brian Snitker more flexibility behind the plate. With Drake Baldwin now serving more of a complementary role, the Braves have a potent one-two punch at catcher, one that few teams can match.

Murphy may have missed Opening Day, but he’s quickly becoming one of the early-season stories to watch—not just in Atlanta, but across MLB.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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