Braves Announce Drake Baldwin News After 18 Missed Games
The Atlanta Braves catching corps is completely depleted, with both starters Drake Baldwin and Sean Murphy currently on the injured list. While the team has continued to thrive, entering Tuesday with MLB's best record at 45-21, they are still hoping for the return of Baldwin.
Before going down, the 25-year-old had begun to emerge as one of baseball's brightest stars. Baldwin took home National League Rookie of the Year last season and has improved since then, which is incredibly impressive given his age.
Across 48 games, Baldwin posted a .303 batting average, .389 on-base percentage, .931 OPS, 13 home runs and 38 RBIs. Unfortunately, Baldwin suffered a Grade 1 right oblique strain back in May and has been sidelined since. He has missed 18 straight games.
However, Baldwin is looking to make his return and provide an impact. He had already indicated that he planned on rejoining the lineup during Atlanta's next homestand, which begins next Tuesday. Now that plan is starting to come into fruition.
Braves manager Walt Weiss spoke with reporters ahead of Tuesday's series opener against the Chicago White Sox and provided the latest update on Baldwin's condition.
"Walt Weiss said Drake Baldwin is currently at the club's complex in Florida. Baldwin is scheduled to face live batting practice on Thursday and Friday, and if all goes well, the plan is for him to begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Gwinnett on Saturday and Sunday," reported Jesus Cano of The Athletic.
Walt Weiss said Drake Baldwin is currently at the club's complex in Florida.
— Jesús Cano (@Jesus_Cano88) June 9, 2026
Baldwin is scheduled to face live batting practice on Thursday and Friday, and if all goes well, the plan is for him to begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Gwinnett on Saturday and Sunday.
This is a huge development for the Braves, who have been forced to rely on Sandy Leon and Austin Wynns behind the plate, a clear downgrade from Baldwin.
If Baldwin does not suffer any setbacks, he could be right back in the starting lineup on June 16.
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This story was originally published June 9, 2026 at 3:39 PM.