The Atlanta Braves’ young catcher Drake Baldwin has officially earned national recognition, making his debut on MLB Network’s Top 100 Players list for the 2026 season.
Baldwin checked in at No. 96 overall, a milestone that underscores his rapid rise from promising prospect to essential big‑league contributor.
His inclusion comes on the heels of a breakout 2025 campaign in which he was named National League Rookie of the Year. Across 124 games, the 24‑year‑old left‑handed hitter posted a .274 batting average, .341 on‑base percentage and.810 OPS with 19 home runs and 80 RBIs. Baldwin added 18 doubles, 38 walks and just 68 total strikeouts.
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His production was especially valuable for a Braves team that struggled to find consistency elsewhere in the lineup, and his ability to deliver in clutch moments quickly made him a fan favorite at Truist Park.
What makes Baldwin’s recognition even more notable is the position he plays. Catcher is one of the most demanding roles in baseball, and offensive output at the position is often scarce. Baldwin not only handled the rigors of catching but also provided elite production, giving Atlanta a rare combination of defensive stability and offensive punch.
The Braves view Baldwin as a key piece of the organization moving forward, particularly with veteran backstop Sean Murphy battling injuries.
His emergence provides the club with flexibility and long‑term stability behind the plate. Baldwin’s youth, offensive upside and improving defensive skills suggest he could remain a fixture in the Top 100 for years to come.
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For Baldwin, the recognition is both a reward for his perseverance and a signal of what lies ahead. Drafted in the third round of the 2022 MLB Draft, he steadily climbed through the minor leagues before earning a spot on the Braves’ Opening Day roster in 2025. His journey from mid‑round draft pick to Top 100 player reflects his work ethic, adaptability and ability to seize opportunity.
As the Braves prepare for the 2026 season, Baldwin’s presence in the Top 100 reinforces his growing stature in the league.
For Atlanta, it is a reminder that their rebuild around young talent continues to pay dividends, and for Baldwin, it marks the beginning of what could be a long run among baseball’s elite.
His bat will be central to the Braves’ hopes of rebounding in 2026, as his continued growth is vital to stabilizing the lineup and driving a return to the postseason.