The Los Angeles Angels made a savvy offseason move by signing veteran catcher **Travis d’Arnaud**, a decision that could significantly boost their run prevention and offensive production in 2025. The Atlanta Braves, meanwhile, are likely kicking themselves for letting him go. After declining d’Arnaud’s $8 million club option following the 2024 season—part of a broader effort to cut costs—the Braves left themselves vulnerable behind the plate.
That vulnerability became glaring when starting catcher **Sean Murphy** suffered a fractured rib, sidelining him for 4-6 weeks. Murphy, who struggled mightily in 2024 (.193/.284/.352 slash line, 78 wRC+), has been outplayed by d’Arnaud in nearly every statistical category, including fWAR. Despite sharing duties in a platoon, d’Arnaud was clearly Atlanta’s more reliable option, playing 27 more games and delivering superior production.
Now, the Braves are left scrambling with **Chadwick Tromp** (a defensive specialist with little offensive upside) and 23-year-old prospect **Drake Baldwin**, who, while promising, is unlikely to carry the load for a contending team. Compounding the issue, Atlanta also parted ways with longtime catching coach **Sal Fasano**, who has since joined the Angels’ pitching staff.
In Anaheim, d’Arnaud is already making an impact. Beyond his power displays in spring training, he’s embraced a mentorship role, aiming to help young catcher **Logan O’Hoppe** become the best in franchise history. His leadership, combined with his on-field antics and loose demeanor, has brought a refreshing energy to the Angels—a team in desperate need of both stability and personality.
At just $12 million over two years, d’Arnaud might be one of the most cost-effective yet impactful acquisitions in baseball this season. For the Angels, he’s not just a player; he’s a game-changer on and off the field. For the Braves, his departure is a glaring misstep that could haunt them in 2025.
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