The Atlanta Braves have emerged as the top team in the National League through the early portion of the 2026 MLB season. Entering Monday with a 46-25 record, the Braves continue to hold onto the top spot in the National League East, as well as the league’s top record.
As the Braves look to maintain this momentum heading into the summer months, getting their lineup back to full health will play a massive role in their success. One of the Braves' most important contributors has been sidelined for nearly a month, as star catcher Drake Baldwin recovers from an oblique strain.
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After capturing National League Rookie of the Year honours in 2025, the 25-year-old has followed up an excellent rookie campaign with a sensational second season. However, Atlanta has been without its star catcher since May 18, missing a total of 23 games over that span.
The Braves provided some good news regarding Baldwin on Monday, and he appears ready to provide a boost to the top team in baseball.
After completing a rehabilitation assignment with Triple-A Gwinnett, Baldwin was officially activated from the injured list on Monday. The organization announced the roster decision on social media.
"The #Braves today returned C Drake Baldwin from his rehabilitation assignment and reinstated him from the injured list, and outrighted C Austin Wynns to Triple-A Gwinnett," the Braves shared on X.
Prior to landing on the injured list, Baldwin posted outstanding numbers. Currently leading all National League catchers in All-Star voting, he is slashing .303/.389/.543 in 48 games this season, with 13 home runs and 38 RBIs.
As he further builds on the success of his rookie season, Baldwin gives Atlanta yet another impact bat as the organization looks to maintain its top seed and continue its pursuit of a second World Series title this decade.
Baldwin is scheduled to return on Tuesday as the Braves begin a three-game home series against the San Francisco Giants.
