Predicting the 2023 stats of each Braves player — Sean Murphy

This continues my series where I try to predict the 2023 stats of every Braves player, moving on to the biggest acquisition of this offseason, Sean Murphy. If you missed any of the previous editions of this series, follow the links below.

Predicting Sean Murphy’s stats in 2023

Murphy had a breakout campaign for Oakland in 2022 and will be the leading receiver for the next six years in Atlanta. Travis d’Arnaud has been great for the Braves, but he’s not Sean Murphy. Defensively, Murphy is arguably the best in the business, but I’m excited to see what he can do at the plate in a more batting-friendly stadium surrounded by much better offensive talent.

As far as how many games Murphy will catch, I expect him to be north of 100. The Braves won’t want to wear him down, but he’s the type of player who’s better when he catches every day, which can be seen by its divisions when used as DH.

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As a catcher: 116 games, .269/.348/.458, .805 OPS, 16 homers

In DH: 30 games, .179/.271/.313, .584 OPS, 2 home runs

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The Braves will likely use Murphy occasionally as a DH, but he’s not an elite offensive player, just above average for a receiver. There is a substantial difference. The Braves won’t get the most out of Murphy unless he catches over 100 games, which I think will be the plan. Offensively, I don’t suspect anything spectacular, but his WAR will be breathtaking because of his elite defense behind the plate.

Sean Murphy’s statistical predictions for 2023: 0.245/0.327/0.440, 0.767 OPS, 20 home runs, 81 RBI, 4.0 fWAR

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Photo: Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire

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