Baseball is back in North Port, Florida, and the Atlanta Braves are kicking off the 2026 season with excitement and intrigue. Pitchers and catchers reported for their first official workout on Tuesday, and already there’s a fresh storyline capturing attention: a new face behind the plate. With roster changes and injury concerns shaping the catching depth chart, Braves fans have plenty to watch as spring training begins—and the addition of catcher Jonah Heim adds a new layer of intrigue.
According to Chris Cotillo of MassLive, Heim has agreed to a one-year Major League deal with Atlanta. The 30-year-old backstop was non-tendered by the Texas Rangers in November, ending his time with the AL West club where he had previously earned an All-Star selection in 2023. Heim’s signing gives the Braves added depth at a position that could see early-season turbulence.
While Heim has shown flashes of talent at the highest level, last season was a disappointment at the plate. In 433 plate appearances with the Rangers, he hit just .213, with an on-base percentage of .271 and a slugging mark of .332. He finished with 11 home runs and an OPS of .602, numbers that were well below his career standards. Yet the Braves are betting that a change of scenery—and an opportunity to compete in a stacked organization—could help Heim rediscover his form.
The Braves’ catching situation is in transition. Drake Baldwin, the reigning National League Rookie of the Year, is set to assume the starting role behind the plate. Meanwhile, veteran Sean Murphy, who would normally serve as the primary backup, could miss the first month of the season after undergoing surgery last September to repair a hip tear.
That creates an opening for Heim to step in, provide veteran experience, and potentially regain confidence at the plate while contributing defensively. For a player coming off a rough season, it’s an opportunity that could define the next chapter of his career.Atlanta isn’t putting all its eggs in one basket. Several non-roster catchers have been invited to spring training, including Chadwick Tromp, Sandy Leon, and Jair Camargo. All three will have the chance to compete for playing time, push Heim for the backup role, and make an impression on the coaching staff before the regular season begins. With Murphy’s recovery timeline uncertain, Atlanta’s catching depth chart could see significant movement, and Heim might have a chance to carve out a meaningful role if he seizes the opportunity.
As Braves fans follow the team through spring training, the spotlight on Jonah Heim will be just one storyline in a busy preseason. Between roster battles, returning stars, and the pursuit of another deep playoff run, Atlanta’s camp promises plenty of excitement—and Heim’s performance could be a key piece of the puzzle.