The Atlanta Braves are reportedly bringing in experienced catcher James McCann on a minor league deal, as reported by Robert Murray of FanSided. McCann, who is 34 years old and has 11 years of MLB experience, appeared in 65 games for the Baltimore Orioles last season, posting a .234 batting average with eight home runs and 31 RBI over 214 plate appearances.
The Braves’ catching depth has been a growing concern as Opening Day approaches later this month. Starting catcher Sean Murphy is expected to begin the season on the injured list, leaving backup Chadwick Tromp as the only other catcher on the 40-man roster. This follows the release of Curt Casali and the assignment of Sandy Leon to minor league camp.
Without adding another catcher, the Braves would have had to rely on top prospect Drake Baldwin for the Opening Day roster, despite feeling he might not be fully prepared. McCann’s signing provides some competition for Baldwin for the backup catching role behind Murphy.
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