3 Braves MVP candidates, and 1 player who should be benched

Sean Murphy has been on an absolute tear ever since Travis d’Arnaud went down

Of all the things that have happened to the Braves over the last few weeks, this storyline has been my absolute favorite. Although much was made about the Braves trading for A’s backstop Sean Murphy in a three-team deal involving the Milwaukee Brewers, Murphy has been a godsend ever since Rougned Odor gave Travis d’Arnaud a forearm shiver to the dome during a play at the plate.

Murphy had a slow start vs. the Washington Nationals to begin the season. After d’Arnaud was placed in concussion protocol following the controversial play at the plate, Murphy took over catching full-time. Although the pitching staff has been up and down in that span, Murphy has been obliterating the baseball like he is Dale Murphy or something. Even Murph like this Murphy!

In time, Murphy’s batting average will regress to the mean. While his glove and rocket arm behind the dish will remain his calling card, Murphy seems incredibly comfortable at the plate for the Braves. Manager Brian Snitker moving to cleanup has been transformative for everyone. He is cashing in all the runs he wants, while second baseman Ozzie Albies tries to find his swing again.

The best part is d’Arnaud will return soon, making the Braves’ elite catching tandem otherworldly.