Braves acquire catcher Joey Bart to bolster lineup amid defensive concerns

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 19, 2026, 1:00 PM

Last updated Jun 19, 2026

Braves acquire catcher Joey Bart to bolster lineup amid defensive concerns
Summary

The Atlanta Braves have traded for catcher Joey Bart, a former second overall pick in the 2018 MLB Draft, as of June 19, 2026. Bart brings offensive prowess, recording a 110 wRC+ in 2024-2025, but faces scrutiny for his defensive skills, particularly in framing. The Braves' move may signal a shift in their approach to catcher value, prioritizing offense over elite defensive metrics. Details surrounding the trade highlight Bart's potential contrast to current catchers on the roster, who have focused on defense more than hitting.

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By the Numbers
  • •Atlanta Braves acquire Joey Bart on June 19, 2026.
  • •Bart has a career wRC+ of 95 but improved to 110 recently.
  • •The move suggests a potential shift in catcher evaluation strategy.
  • •Bart's defensive metrics, particularly in framing, are under scrutiny.
  • •He joins a roster of catchers that previously prioritized defense.
Latest Updates
  • 1:00 PMYahoo Sports — Are the Braves over catcher defense?
  • 1:00 PMBatterypower.com — Are the Braves over catcher defense? - Battery Power
What they're saying
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Or was Joey Bart just too tempting a piece?

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Or was Joey Bart just too tempting a piece?

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