Atlanta brings a new catching option late in Spring Training.
Multiple reports this evening, including by Robert Murray, indicate that the Atlanta Braves are adding free agent catcher James McCann on a minor league deal.
Source: Free-agent catcher James McCann and the Atlanta Braves are in agreement on a minor-league contract.
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) March 18, 2025
The Braves released veteran Curt Casali earlier today and also reassigned Sandy León to their minor league camp. Starting catcher Sean Murphy will miss the beginning of the regular season after suffering a fracture rib several weeks ago. Presumed backup Chadwick Tromp and Atlanta’s top prospect Drake Baldwin seem the two most likley options to be on Atlanta’s Opening Day roster.
McCann is an 11-year MLB veteran who spent the past two seasons with the Baltimore Orioles. He also spent two seasons each with the New York Mets and Chicago White Sox after five seasons with the Detroit Tigers who drafted him in the second round of the 2011 draft.
An All-Star in 2019, McCann has played in more than 900 career games. A starter for much of his career, he’s been a below-average offensive performer with a career 82 wRC+. Defensively, he has been trending down in recent seasons as well. He will turn 35 in June.
He will look to join Triple-A after getting into form at extended Spring Training, according to multiple reports.
The #Braves signed veteran catcher James McCann to a minor league contract and released catcher Curt Casali, also on a minor league deal. McCann, 34, had 8 HRs & .667 OPS in 233 PAs w/ Baltimore in 2024. He’ll stay in Fla. in minor league camp & join Triple-A Gwinnett when ready.
— David O’Brien (@DOBrienATL) March 18, 2025