Drake Baldwin’s rise with the Atlanta Braves is starting to follow a familiar script - and if history is any indication, a long-term extension could be just around the corner.
The Braves have built a reputation over the past few seasons for locking in their young core early, and it’s been a cornerstone of their roster-building strategy. From Ronald Acuña Jr. to Michael Harris II, Atlanta hasn’t hesitated to bet on its emerging stars before the rest of the league fully catches on. It’s a calculated move: the player gets financial security early in their career, and the team potentially lands a long-term bargain if that player blossoms into a star.
Now, it’s Baldwin’s turn in the spotlight.
Fresh off a breakout campaign that earned him National League Rookie of the Year honors, Baldwin has quickly shown he’s more than just a promising prospect. He’s a legitimate piece of the Braves’ future, and he plays one of the most demanding positions in baseball - catcher. That combo of defensive value and offensive production makes him an especially intriguing candidate for an early extension.
According to a recent report, Baldwin is firmly on Atlanta’s radar when it comes to future contract talks. And it makes sense.
He’s under team control for five more years and won’t hit arbitration for two, but the Braves have never been shy about getting ahead of the market. If they believe Baldwin is the long-term answer behind the plate - and his performance so far certainly suggests that - don’t be surprised if they move to secure his services well into the future.
There’s minimal downside here for the Braves. Sure, there’s always risk when committing early to a young player, especially one at a physically taxing position like catcher.
But Baldwin has already shown he can handle the grind, both at the plate and behind it. And even if he doesn’t maintain his current trajectory, the structure of these early deals often protects the team from major financial exposure.
Atlanta doesn’t have to act quickly. With five years of team control, there’s no urgency from a contractual standpoint.
But urgency has never been the point for this front office. It’s about continuity, culture, and cost-effective talent.
It’s about keeping the window open - and keeping it affordable.
So while nothing is imminent, don’t be shocked if Baldwin’s name is the next one on the Braves’ extension list. After all, this is what they do.