Braves’ Drake Baldwin Named national League Rookie of the Year
NEW YORK – Atlanta Braves catcher Drake Baldwin has been named the National League Rookie of the Year, the Baseball Writers’ Association of America (BBWAA) announced today. Baldwin, a third-round pick in the 2022 draft, exceeded expectations in his debut season, earning the honor after being unexpectedly thrust into the starting role.
Baldwin was called up to the majors as the club’s opening Day catcher when Sean Murphy began the 2025 season on the disabled list with a broken rib. initially struggling at the plate, he found his stride in May, hitting .389/.411/.593 for the month. He continued to improve, posting an OPS of at least .800 in each of the final three months of the season.
Baldwin finished the year with a .274/.341/.469 slash line, 19 home runs, and a 3.1 fWAR, leading all National League rookies.
He is the 10th player in Braves history to win the award, joining Michael Harris II (2022), Ronald acuña Jr. (2018), Craig Kimbrel (2011), Rafael Furcal (2000), David justice (1990), Bob Horner (1978), Earl Williams (1971), Sam Jethroe (1950), and Al Dark (1948). Williams was the other Braves catcher to receive the honor.
Baldwin had several standout performances, including a six-RBI game against the Giants on July 21. Arguably his most memorable game came on August 7 against the Marlins, were he went 3-for-5 with two home runs and a late-game tying single that propelled the Braves to victory.
Braves manager Brian Snitker compared Baldwin’s emergence to that of former star catcher Brian McCann, stating, “When [Brian McCann] came about the same way.He was advanced behind the plate and on offense, and Drake is at that same level.”
“I didn’t think I was in the Major Leagues at all [in 2025],” baldwin said in August. “I thought an prospect might arise around this time or in September when rosters expanded. But it’s marvelous.”
