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Braves call up Owen Murphy and seal fate of trade deadline throw-in arm

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ByChase Owens
Jul 18, 2026; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves pitcher Owen Murphy (73) pitches against the Texas Rangers during the first inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
Jul 18, 2026; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves pitcher Owen Murphy (73) pitches against the Texas Rangers during the first inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Atlanta's No. 10 prospect is returning to the big leagues; the Braves announced right-handed pitcher Owen Murphy has been recalled to Atlanta, and LHP Bailey Falter was subsequently designated for assignment. Murphy made his Major League debut back in July and has been pitching well in Gwinnett as of late.

Over his last five starts, Murphy has a 1.29 ERA in 28 innings pitched. It's likely Murphy will serve as a multi-inning relief option over the next few days as Atlanta looks to find outs after a taxing weekend series against the Phillies.

Falter got the Elieser Hernandez treatment, after pitching a couple of scoreless outings this past week then ultimately getting DFA'd. It was suspected Falter could soon be on his way out, but this transaction brings an arm we weren't necessarily expecting to see in 2026 again.

Owen Murphy recalled by the Braves, Bailey Falter designated for assignment

When the Braves acquired Falter at the trade deadline, it was never really expected for him to contribute substantially to the big league club. With this move, it is clear the Braves want to keep guys like Falter and Elieser Hernandez around as depth that the club can call upon whenever the team is short in the bullpen.

Don't be surpised if Murphy appears in just one game then Atlanta makes another move to bring back Hernandez, Falter, or a surging JR Ritchie to navigate the final 12 games of the regular season. It's clear Alex Anthopoulos has a revolving door method with the backend of his bullpen, and in September things get a little crazy.

Meanwhile, Murphy is back in Atlanta seeking redemption after his initial July call-up. There is still reason to get excited about Murphy as a pitching prospect, given his unique fastball traits and feel for pitching. While Murphy isn't auditioning for a postseason spot, this is an opportunity to carry some momentum into the offseason. If Murphy can pitch well this week, he can position himself as a real candidate for the Major League pitching staff in 2027.

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