Atlanta was buzzing this weekend, and for good reason. Drake Baldwin, the Braves' dynamic catcher, celebrated his 25th birthday in style with a standout performance against the Kansas City Royals. Surrounded by family and friends from the Midwest, Baldwin made sure the moment was unforgettable, launching two home runs-one on Opening Day and another on Sunday.
But the celebrations didn’t stop there. Baldwin is also being recognized for his stellar 2025 season, where he earned the NL Rookie of the Year honors with a .274 average, 19 home runs, and 80 RBIs. To commemorate his achievements, Baldwin is getting his own bobblehead, a nod to his growing impact on the team and the league.
Joining Baldwin in the spotlight, first baseman Matt Olson and utility player Mauricio Dubón are receiving Gold Glove Awards, while Ronald Acuña Jr. is being honored as the NL Comeback Player of the Year. It’s a good time to be a Braves fan.
Baldwin, hailing from Wisconsin, is all smiles, especially about the bobblehead. “The bobblehead is the first thing that came to fruition after the Rookie of the Year stuff.
I was like, ‘Oh, this is sweet,’” Baldwin shared. His family, who have been cheering him on throughout the homestand, are thrilled about the honor.
Baldwin's performance on the field is matching the excitement off it. He’s leading the team with two homers in just four games and is hitting the ball with authority. Currently ranking in the top 10% of MLB hitters in max exit velocity, Baldwin is proving he’s no one-hit wonder and is poised to avoid the dreaded sophomore slump.
The Braves, sitting at 3-1, are off to a much better start than last year's 0-7 opening. “You just feel that extra energy when you’re 3-1.
A lot of extra energy. It’s much easier to have fun,” Baldwin reflected.
The team’s strong start is bolstered by excellent pitching, with Chris Sale and Bryce Elder combining for 12 scoreless innings and Reynaldo López allowing just one run, contributing to a team ERA of 1.50, second best in the majors.
Manager Walt Weiss is sending left-hander José Suárez to the mound on Tuesday against the Athletics, with Baldwin set to catch. First pitch is at 7:15 p.m.
For fans eager to catch the action, the Braves and Gray Media are offering a simulcast of 25 games for free across the Southeast. Check local listings for broadcast details and enjoy the game. The Braves are looking strong, and with Baldwin leading the charge, this season promises plenty of excitement.