Braves’ Unique Lineup Choice May Signal Quick IL Comeback
The Atlanta Braves will list 2025 NL Rookie of the Year Drake Baldwin as the designated hitter on Opening Day. Manager Walt Weiss confirmed Jonah Heim will start behind the plate for the season opener.
Platoon plan against left-handers
Atlanta opens the year against Kansas City left-hander Cole Ragens. Weiss said he plans to use Baldwin as the DH against lefties for the near term.
The move functions as a platoon decision. It preserves Baldwin’s catching opportunities when the Braves face right-handed starters.
Bench composition and DH needs
The Braves begin with 13 consecutive games. Without Jurickson Profar, the DH role will rotate frequently.
Dominic Smith is the clear DH option versus righties. The bench of Eli White, Kyle Farmer, and Jorge Mateo lacks a clear righty DH slugger.
Maximizing Baldwin’s at-bats
Coaches want to maximize Baldwin’s plate appearances this season. Using him as DH versus lefties creates more total at-bats.
Twitter/X user Harsha (ArmchairAlex) highlighted that approach. It allows Baldwin to catch more often in favorable matchups.
Jonah Heim’s splits and role
Heim’s spring training bat showed little pop. Still, his career production is stronger against left-handed pitching.
| Split | Career OPS |
|---|---|
| Versus lefties | .733 |
| Versus righties | .626 |
Those numbers explain why Atlanta will start Heim against left-handed starters. The plan keeps Baldwin fresh and productive.
Sean Murphy’s recovery timeline
Former All-Star catcher Sean Murphy began the season on the injured list. The Braves expect him to return sometime in May.
The Baldwin-as-DH approach may signal confidence in a quick IL comeback. Front-office personnel appear to be planning for Murphy’s earlier return.
Roster outlook and long-term benefits
The decision aims to give Atlanta its strongest lineup early. It also supports Baldwin’s development over a full season.
Fans can expect rotating DH usage until Murphy returns. The Braves’ unique lineup choice balances immediate needs and future roster health.
- Opening-Day catcher: Jonah Heim
- Opening-Day DH: Drake Baldwin
- Opposing starter: Cole Ragens (LHP)
- Murphy status: on IL, expected back in May
- Season-opening stretch: 13 games
