The Atlanta Braves have made a calculated move to strengthen their roster, signing veteran catcher James McCann to a minor league contract. While McCann is no longer the All-Star player he once was, this signing represents more than just depth for the Braves—it’s a potential redemption story for a seasoned player looking to prove he still belongs at the highest level. With the Braves seeking another championship push, this move could pay off in a big way.
McCann’s Journey: A Rollercoaster Career
James McCann, an 11-year MLB veteran, was once one of the more promising catchers in the league. After debuting with the Detroit Tigers in 2014, he carved out a reputation as a solid defensive catcher with occasional pop in his bat. His best season came in 2019 with the Chicago White Sox, when he earned his first and only All-Star selection, posting a .273 batting average with 18 home runs and 60 RBIs. That performance landed him a four-year, $40 million contract with the New York Mets ahead of the 2021 season.
Unfortunately, McCann struggled to live up to expectations in New York, batting just .220 over two seasons before being traded to the Baltimore Orioles. In 2023, he found himself in a backup role, hitting .234 with eight home runs and 31 RBIs in limited action. Now, at age 33, McCann is hoping for one more shot at contributing to a winning team, and Atlanta may be the perfect place for that comeback.
Why the Braves Signed McCann
The Braves’ decision to bring in McCann comes at a time of uncertainty at the catcher position. Their starting catcher, Sean Murphy, suffered a cracked left rib, leaving the team without a reliable veteran behind the plate. Chadwick Tromp, the only other catcher on the 40-man roster, has limited MLB experience, making the need for reinforcements clear.
While McCann was only signed to a minor league deal, it’s likely he will be called up if Murphy’s injury lingers or if Tromp struggles. The Braves value veteran leadership and defensive stability behind the plate—qualities McCann can still offer even if his offensive numbers have declined.
A Pattern of Veteran Catcher Signings
This isn’t the first time the Braves have invested in experienced catchers to bolster their lineup. In 2019, they brought back seven-time All-Star Brian McCann, who played a key role in guiding their young pitching staff. More recently, they extended Travis d’Arnaud’s contract, ensuring they had a dependable, battle-tested presence in their catching corps.
McCann may not be an All-Star anymore, but if he can find a second wind in Atlanta, he could contribute to another Braves postseason run. Given the team’s track record of helping veterans regain their form, this could be a perfect match for both sides.
With a mix of experience, defensive ability, and motivation, James McCann’s signing might be more than just depth—it could be a crucial move in the Braves’ championship pursuit.