Scouting Report
Updated May 19, 2026
Drake Baldwin, 25-year-old Atlanta Braves catcher and 2025 NL Rookie of the Year, was placed on the 10-day injured list on May 19, 2026, with a strained right oblique muscle suffered during a loss to the Miami Marlins. Baldwin was in an MVP-caliber season, hitting .303/.389/.543 with 13 home runs in 48 games (216 plate appearances) and a 160 wRC+, ranking 8th among all qualified hitters. He leads all catchers in home runs and has appeared in every game for the Braves. The injury timeline is uncertain but could extend beyond 10 days, with oblique injuries typically requiring multiple weeks of recovery. The Braves have not yet engaged Baldwin in contract extension discussions despite his exceptional performance.
Strengths
- + MVP-caliber offensive production (.303 BA, .389 OBP, .543 SLG)
- + League-leading 13 home runs among catchers
- + 160 wRC+ ranks 8th among all qualified hitters
- + Exceptional bat-to-ball skills, top 15% in hard-hit rate
- + Leads majors with 17 hits on pitches outside strike zone
- + Reigning NL Rookie of the Year (2025)
- + Only 25 years old with high ceiling for future production
- + Appeared in every game for Braves before injury
- + Strong recent form: .321/.409/.506 over last 20 games
- + Versatile player (catcher and DH)
Injury Status: IL-10
About
Drake Baldwin is a catcher for the Atlanta Braves.
Player Overview
C
Atlanta Braves
Recent News
Braves manager Walt Weiss told reporters Drake Baldwin has been diagnosed with a Grade 1 right oblique strain.
May 19, 2026
Drake Baldwin s oblique strain a Grade 1
May 19, 2026
Drake Baldwin: Diagnosed with Grade 1 strain
May 19, 2026
Drake Baldwin: Headed back to Atlanta for MRI
May 19, 2026
Drake Baldwin placed on injured list with oblique strain, halting Braves catcher's breakout season
May 19, 2026