Braves Sign Veteran Catcher Curt Casali to Minor League Deal

ATLANTA, Ga. — The Atlanta Braves have signed veteran catcher Curt Casali to a minor league contract, adding depth to their catching corps as they prepare for the 2025 season. The 36-year-old backstop, who has played for 11 different organizations over his 14-year professional career, will compete for a backup role during Spring Training.

Casali, who spent last season with the San Francisco Giants, appeared in 41 games, primarily as a backup after starting catcher Joey Bart suffered a season-ending knee injury. Despite a challenging offensive year, where he posted a .194/.293/.250 slash line in 125 plate appearances, Casali brings a wealth of experience and a reputation for strong defensive skills and pitcher management.

“Curt has been a reliable presence behind the plate throughout his career,” said a Braves spokesperson. “His ability to work with pitchers and handle a pitching staff is something we value highly.”

Casali’s most productive stretch came with the Cincinnati Reds from 2018 to 2020, where he hit .260/.345/.440 in 485 plate appearances while sharing catching duties with Tucker Barnhart. However, his offensive production has declined in recent years, and his defensive metrics, including blocking, framing, and caught-stealing numbers, were below average in 2024.

The Braves declined an $8 million club option on longtime catcher Travis d'Arnaud earlier this offseason, who subsequently signed with the Los Angeles Angels. Atlanta is now set to rely on Sean Murphy as the starting catcher, with Chadwick Tromp as the primary backup. Casali and another veteran, William Contreras, will provide competition during Spring Training.

Top prospect Shea Langeliers, who hit well in 334 plate appearances with Triple-A Gwinnett last season, is also expected to make his MLB debut in 2025, adding further depth to the position.

Casali’s signing reflects the Braves’ strategy of building depth for the grueling 162-game season. “These are the kind of moves that not everybody understands, but depth is very important,” said one fan on social media. “If Murphy gets hurt, having a serviceable veteran catcher could be huge.”

The Braves have been active in the offseason, focusing on value-driven acquisitions while staying below the luxury tax threshold. With several free agents and trade targets still available, the team is expected to make additional moves before Spring Training begins.