Braves predicted to keep $73 million All-Star despite trade rumors

The Atlanta Braves' season has not gone as fans and many experts expected. Making the postseason is unlikely, and the team could be active sellers at the trade deadline.

Given Drake Baldwin's emergence and the team's struggles, there are rumors about Sean Murphy being traded. However, Sports Illustrated's Will Laws and Nick Selbe predicted the Braves would hold on to Murphy.

"Catchers are rarely traded midseason, especially those as talented as Murphy," wrote Sports Illustrated. "And the Braves have indicated they won’t deal the 2023 All-Star they have under contract through 2028. But with Drake Baldwin emerging as a Rookie of the Year contender and this season looking like a lost one for Atlanta, Murphy could fetch a monster haul for a team short on organizational depth."

Baldwin's emergence does put Murphy's future into doubt. He signed a six-year $73 million deal with the Braves in 2023, but becomes expendable if Baldwin figures to take over as the primary catcher.

However, Marcell Ozuna is unlikely to return next year and may even get traded in the coming week. That will allow Murphy and Baldwin to serve as a catcher and designated hitter duo moving forward.

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Going into next season, the Braves could build their lineup around Murphy and Baldwin sharing catcher and designated hitter duties. However, an offseason trade for Murphy may be on the table if a great offer presents itself. The Braves could then find a designated hitter in free agency. Trading Murphy in the winter makes more sense than trading him now.