Key Highlights
- Atlanta Braves sign veteran catcher Jonah Heim to a one-year major league contract.
- Heim was key in the Rangers’ 2023 World Series victory but has struggled since.
- The signing comes as Sean Murphy’s return remains uncertain, with possible May availability.
- Heim’s declining performance and defensive metrics make him a risky backup option for the Braves.
Braves Sign Jonah Heim: A Catcher’s Decline?
The Atlanta Braves have added veteran catcher Jonah Heim to their roster. According to reports, Heim signed a one-year deal with the team, though an official announcement has not yet been made.
This move comes at a time when the Braves are navigating the uncertain return of Sean Murphy from hip surgery. The signing of Heim suggests that Murphy’s availability for the start of the season remains in question, and Heim will likely compete for backup catching duties with Drake Baldwin.
Heim’s Decline
In his 2023 World Series-winning season with the Texas Rangers, Heim showed flashes of brilliance. His .258/.317/.438 batting line (107 wRC+) and 18 home runs were particularly impressive for a backstop. However, since that standout performance, Heim’s skills have taken a noticeable downturn.
Heim’s defensive metrics have also regressed significantly.
His caught-stealing rate has dropped to just 13.7%, well below the league average of 20.6%. His pop time behind the plate has increased, and his throw speed has dipped from 81.1 mph in 2023 to 79.5 mph by 2024.
Offensively, Heim’s struggles are even more pronounced. His batting line has dropped to a dismal .217/.269/.334 (32% below league average), with no significant changes in his strikeout rate but a noticeable decline in walk rate and exit velocity. His power output has also diminished, with fewer hard-hit balls and grounders on the rise.
Strategic Considerations
The signing of Heim represents a strategic gamble for the Braves. Given that Murphy could return as early as May or later, Heim’s presence is seen as a higher-upside option. However, his declining performance makes him a risky choice to back up Baldwin.
The Braves might be counting on Heim to step up if Murphy cannot make it back in time. Yet, with his current form and defensive metrics, the team will need to closely monitor how well he can perform in a high-pressure environment.
Final Thoughts
You might think this is new, but the market for catchers has always been unpredictable. Heim’s signing signals that the Braves are preparing for the worst-case scenario with Murphy’s injury. While his potential to contribute positively cannot be ignored, the team will need to closely manage expectations given his recent performance.