Unexpected names often emerge when players report to spring training, and this is particularly common with the Atlanta Braves, an organization known for keeping its minor transactions relatively private. An example of this surfaced this morning, when MLB.com Braves beat writer Mark Bowman reported that former Rangers catcher Jonah Heim is in camp with the Braves.
As pitchers and catchers report to CoolToday Park this morning, anticipation is building. The Braves are expected to open the 2026 season with 2025 National League Rookie of the Year Drake Baldwin anchoring the club behind the plate. However, with veteran Sean Murphy projected to be sidelined until at least May as he recovers from hip surgery, the need for a reliable backstop becomes especially significant during the early portion of the season in Atlanta.
Catcher Jonah Heim is in camp with the Braves. Seems like a good candidate to begin the backup catcher while Murphy begins the season on the IL. Murphy will begin running exercises today. Still aiming to be activated at some point in May.
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) February 10, 2026
Why Jonah Heim could open the season as the Braves backup catcher
The Braves released their non-roster invitees earlier this year, and Heim's name was no where to be found. Instead, the expectation was that Chadwick Tromp and Sandy León would battle this spring to see who wins the backup catcher role.
The Braves have since brought in Heim, likely on a minor league contract that includes an invitation to spring training. Heim earned All-Star honors with Texas in 2023, though his production has declined in each of the past two seasons, ultimately leading to his non-tender.
Heim owns a career .225/.282/.371 slash line, though his performance against left-handed pitching stands out. Over his career, he has posted a 104 wRC+ versus left-handers, suggesting he could be a strong complementary option early in the season, particularly in matchups against tougher left-handed starters, allowing the Braves to manage Baldwin’s workload effectively.
Heim may not be the most intriguing option to watch this spring, but his potential upside is expected to exceed what Tromp or the soon-to-be 37-year-old León can provide. While Heim will need to prove he is a serviceable option during spring training, barring a particularly poor showing, it is reasonable to expect him to open the 2026 season on the Braves’ 26-man roster.