The Braves made multiple roster moves before opening a seven-game homestand Monday, including returning catcher Sean Murphy (left oblique) from the injured list. The team also placed outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. on the injured list after announcing Sunday he tore his left ACL and will miss the remainder of the season. The Braves also recalled outfielder J.P. Martinez and designated infielder Joey Wendle for assignment.
“Frustrating (process), a lot of waiting around,” said Murphy, who left with the injury during the Braves’ first game of the season. “Waiting for things to heal and wishing it would go faster, but there’s nothing you can really do to make what you want to happen happen, but happy to be back.”
Murphy, who’d played just one major-league game this season, went 5-for-18 with two homers during his rehab assignment with Triple-A Gwinnett. It’ll be a needed boost having Murphy back in the lineup and behind the plate. He went 1-for-4 in his return, saying he felt good afterwards.
Travis d’Arnaud and Chadwick Tromp have handled catching duties in his absence. The latter has done a nice job as a reserve, earning praise from coaches and teammates. The team is carrying three catchers for now, which allows manager Brian Snitker to use one as a pinch-hitter later in games.
An All-Star last season, Murphy hit .251/.365/.478 with 21 homers, 21 doubles and 68 RBIs in his debut season with the Braves, who’d acquired him from the A’s in the previous winter.
Martinez played 17 games for the eventual champion Rangers last season, going 9-for-40 with a home run. He provides additional depth with Acuña now out (”He’s a fourth outfielder who can run,” Snitker said). The Braves had signed Wendle two days ago.
Third baseman Austin Riley also returned to the lineup, but that didn’t require a move because the team didn’t place him on the injured list. He’s missed 13 games.
“I’m excited (to have Murphy and Riley back),” Snitker said. “They’re both in good spots and feel good. We feel good about getting both of them in there. Especially on the heels of (the Acuna injury), it’s nice to have them back in there.”
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