Drake Baldwin entered 2025 spring training hopeful to push for an Opening Day roster spot. He impressed early, but nothing was guaranteed. However, after Sean Murphy cracked a rib in early March, it was clear Baldwin would be thrust into a larger role faster than anyone expected. To his credit, Baldwin never flinched. Most rookies hit that inevitable "rookie wall," but Baldwin never looked like most rookies.
The Braves' top prospect entering 2025 showcased all season why the front office was correct in their high hopes for him, and in the end it earned him 2025 NL Rookie of the Year honors.