Atlanta: In a timely boost for their roster, the Atlanta Braves have signed veteran catcher Jonah Heim to a one-year deal as of February 10, 2026. This move addresses immediate needs behind the plate, especially with key injuries looming. Reports confirm the agreement, positioning Heim for spring training in North Port, Florida.
Jonah Heim, a 30-year-old Buffalo native, spent the past five seasons with the Texas Rangers before being non-tendered after underwhelming 2024 and 2025 campaigns. He starred in 2023, earning American League All-Star honors, a Gold Glove, and helping secure a World Series title. That year, he hit .258 with 18 home runs and elite defensive metrics, including top percentiles in framing and caught stealing.
Recent performance tells a different story for Jonah Heim. In 2025, he appeared in 124 games, batting .213 with 11 home runs, 43 RBIs, and an OPS of .602. Defensively, he threw out just 11 of 70 base runners, with overall metrics grading below average—a sharp drop from his 2023 peak.
The signing follows Sean Murphy’s surgery for a labral tear in his right hip, expected to keep him out until May. Drake Baldwin, the 2025 National League Rookie of the Year, emerges as the primary catcher. Jonah Heim is eyed as a solid backup, with other options like Chadwick Tromp and Sandy León as non-roster invitees.
Heim’s experience could prove invaluable in mentoring Baldwin, even if his offense lags. A strong spring showing might secure him an Opening Day spot. This low-risk addition offers the Braves potential for a defensive bounce-back, enhancing their catching stability.