Braves Sign Former Rangers All-Star Catcher Jonah Heim

Heim joins the team on a $1.25 million, 1-year deal as they await the return of injured starter Sean Murphy.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The Atlanta Braves have signed former Texas Rangers All-Star catcher Jonah Heim to a $1.25 million, one-year contract. Heim, who was an All-Star and Gold Glove winner in 2023, will provide catching depth for the Braves as they await the return of injured starter Sean Murphy, who is recovering from right hip surgery.

Why it matters

The Braves are looking to bolster their catching corps with the absence of Murphy, who was a key part of their lineup. Heim's addition gives them an experienced veteran option to complement 2025 NL Rookie of the Year Drake Baldwin, who is expected to handle most of the starts to open the season.

The details

Heim, 30, hit .258 with 18 home runs and 95 RBIs with the Rangers in 2023, making the All-Star team and winning a Gold Glove. However, his production declined in 2024 and 2025, batting .220 and .213 respectively. The Braves are hoping a change of scenery can help Heim regain his 2023 form and provide solid depth behind the plate.

  • Heim joined the Braves for his first workout with pitchers and catchers on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
  • Murphy began running on Tuesday as he continues his recovery from right hip surgery in September 2025.

The players

Jonah Heim

A 30-year-old catcher who was an All-Star and Gold Glove winner with the Texas Rangers in 2023.

Sean Murphy

The Braves' starting catcher who is recovering from right hip surgery and has no timetable for his return.

Drake Baldwin

The 2025 NL Rookie of the Year who is expected to handle most of the starts at catcher to open the season for the Braves.

Spencer Schwellenbach

A Braves right-hander who was placed on the 60-day injured list due to inflammation in his right elbow, an injury that cut short his 2025 season.

Brian Snitker

The former Braves manager who retired after last season and will be inducted into the team's hall of fame this year after 49 years in the organization, including leading the team to the 2021 World Series championship.

Walt Weiss

The new Braves manager, taking over for the retired Brian Snitker.

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What they’re saying

“I feel good. I think we're making good progress on the hip and now we're checking boxes as we go. So far no setbacks and everything is going well.”

— Sean Murphy (Associated Press)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The Braves' addition of Jonah Heim provides them with valuable catching depth as they await the return of their starting catcher Sean Murphy from injury. This move allows them to ease Murphy back while still having an experienced option behind the plate in Heim to complement the young Drake Baldwin.