The Braves’ fan favorite signs a $12 million contract with the Angels after being released by Atlanta

The Los Angeles Angels have been the most active team in Major League Baseball’s offseason so far, and their moves have had the Atlanta Braves’ fingerprints all over them.

The day after the 2024 World Series ended, the Angels traded Braves outfielder/designated hitter Jorge Soler, a home run threat who no longer fit the Braves’ needs in right field. Less than a week later, the Chicago Cubs’ veteran starting pitcher was added.

Now the Angels are bringing in a longtime favorite of Braves fans who was already halfway out after Atlanta’s decision last week.

Travis d’Arnaud, 35, had his $8 million club option declined on November 4, clearing the way for him to sign elsewhere. The five-year Brave and 2022 All-Star had some memorable moments in an Atlanta uniform, including a walk-off home run in late September against the Kansas City Royals, but his run at Truist Park is over.

On Tuesday, d’Arnaud agreed to a two-year, $12 million contract to join the Angels. The deal was first reported by Jeff Passan of ESPN.

The fact that the Braves are officially letting d’Arnaud sign elsewhere all but confirms that top prospect Drake Baldwin will get a shot at the big league roster at some point in 2025, while 2023 All-Star Sean Murphy still has the starting role holds.

Baldwin, 23, had a fantastic offensive season, batting .298 with an .891 OPS in 72 games at Triple-A Gwinnett. He is considered a solid receiver and thrower with above-average power for a young catcher.

From the Angels’ perspective, the veteran d’Arnaud should be used primarily as a veteran mentor and insurance plan for 24-year-old Logan O’Hoppe, who hit 20 home runs and 2.7 WAR in his first full season of action in 2024. d’Arnaud could also be a useful hitter against lefties off the bench or as a designated hitter.

All good things must come to an end, and d’Arnaud will certainly be fondly remembered for his time in Atlanta. But for now, the 12-year veteran will try to keep his big league dreams alive in Orange County for at least a while longer.

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