Sean Murphy to Rejoin Braves in Seattle After Hip Surgery Recovery

Key facts

• Murphy underwent hip surgery in September 2024.
• He is slated to conclude his rehab assignment this week.
• Braves manager Walt Weiss said Murphy will likely rejoin the team in Seattle early next week.
• Murphy has gone 5-for-32 with a 2:8 BB:K during his rehab assignment.
• He is scheduled to catch all nine innings in back-to-back games with Triple-A Gwinnett before activation.
• Murphy will primarily serve as designated hitter and also work as the team's No. 2 catcher.

Return on the Horizon

Atlanta Braves catcher Sean Murphy is poised to rejoin the major league club early next week in Seattle, marking the end of a lengthy recovery from hip surgery last September. Manager Walt Weiss confirmed the timeline on Thursday, signaling that Murphy's rehab assignment is nearing its conclusion. Murphy has been working his way back through minor league games, most recently with Triple-A Gwinnett. The team plans to have him catch all nine innings in back-to-back contests before activating him, ensuring he is game-ready for the rigors of big league action.

Rehab Performance and Health Status

During his rehab stint, Murphy has struggled offensively, posting a 5-for-32 line with two walks and eight strikeouts. Despite the modest numbers, he reports feeling healthy and has shown no lingering effects from the surgery. The Braves are prioritizing his physical readiness over statistical output, with the back-to-back catching assignment serving as a final test of his durability. Weiss expressed confidence in Murphy's condition, emphasizing that the veteran feels good and is ready to contribute.

Role in Atlanta's Lineup

Upon activation, Murphy is expected to handle the lion's share of starts at designated hitter, a role that eases the physical demands on his surgically repaired hip. He will also be worked in behind the plate as the team's No. 2 catcher, providing depth behind the primary backstop. This dual role allows the Braves to maximize Murphy's offensive potential while managing his workload. His return adds a proven bat to a lineup that has missed his presence since the start of the season.

Timeline and Next Steps

Murphy's rehab assignment is set to wrap up this week, with the back-to-back catching games serving as the final hurdle. If all goes as planned, he will join the Braves in Seattle for their series early next week. Weiss indicated that the team is eager to have Murphy back, though no exact date has been set. The activation will depend on how Murphy responds to the consecutive nine-inning outings behind the plate.

Context of Murphy's Absence

Murphy underwent hip surgery last September, causing him to miss the start of the 2025 season. The Braves have had to adjust their lineup without one of their key offensive contributors, relying on other catchers and designated hitters to fill the void. His return comes at a critical juncture as Atlanta looks to solidify its roster for the stretch run. Murphy's experience and power bat are expected to provide a significant boost.

Outlook for the Braves

With Murphy's activation imminent, the Braves gain flexibility in their lineup construction. His ability to serve as both a designated hitter and catcher gives manager Walt Weiss multiple options to optimize matchups and manage playing time. The team will monitor Murphy's workload closely, particularly early on, to ensure he remains healthy. If his rehab performance is any indication, the Braves are confident he can make a seamless transition back to the majors.

The bottom line

• Sean Murphy will rejoin the Braves early next week in Seattle after completing his rehab assignment.
• He underwent hip surgery in September 2024 and has been sidelined since.
• In rehab, Murphy went 5-for-32 with a 2:8 BB:K but feels healthy.
• He will catch back-to-back nine-inning games with Triple-A Gwinnett before activation.
• Murphy is expected to be the primary designated hitter and No. 2 catcher for Atlanta.