Atlanta Braves catcher Sean Murphy is facing another extended absence after fracturing his left middle finger, just days after returning from hip surgery. The injury occurred during Sunday’s 7-2 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers, when shortstop Hyeseong Kim hit Murphy’s glove while swinging, resulting in catcher’s interference.
Murphy, 31, expressed frustration on Tuesday but remained succinct. “I’m really disappointed. I’m just frustrated. Not much I can do at this point,” he said.
After being activated from the injured list only eight days ago following a right hip labrum repair performed in September, Murphy is now back on the IL. Braves manager Walt Weiss confirmed that Murphy will miss at least eight weeks, a “chunk” of time.
The veteran catcher has landed on the IL five times during his three seasons in Atlanta, and has not appeared in more than 100 games since his first year with the team. The Braves signed Murphy to a six-year, $73 million contract extension upon acquiring him from the Oakland Athletics before the 2023 season.
“Weiss noted that Murphy’s defensive contributions have been outstanding, even when his offense hasn’t been at its best. “He’s been grinding through that,” Weiss said. “Even when he hadn’t swung the bat the way he has in the past, or the way we know he can, he’s been unbelievable on the defensive side.”
With backup Jonah Heim having been traded upon Murphy’s recent return, the Braves moved quickly to bolster their catching depth. They signed veteran Sandy León to a major-league deal. León, 37, had been in the Braves organization since 2024 but was recently released to play in the Mexican League. He has not yet appeared for Saltillo before rejoining Atlanta.
Additionally, outfielder José Azócar returns to the major-league roster from Gwinnett, while infielder Jim Jarvis was optioned. Azócar was designated for assignment by the Braves last week, cleared waivers, signed a minor-league deal, and was added to the active roster Tuesday.
Murphy’s absence is a significant blow to the Braves, who have relied on his defensive prowess despite inconsistent offensive production. The team will now turn to León and others to handle catching duties until Murphy can return later this summer.