The Braves said the timetable is four to six weeks for Murphy’s return. A year ago, Murphy strained his oblique on Opening Day and missed two months. D’Arnaud stepped back into the primary role with Tromp as his backup while Murphy was out. Baldwin was in Double A at the time.

Atlanta Braves catcher Sean Murphy has suffered a fractured left rib that will sideline him for at least the next month, according to MLB.com. Murphy, in turn, will be unavailable when the Braves open their schedule on March 27 against the San Diego Padres.

An injury to a key Braves player opens the door for a top prospect to take over as the starting catcher, with the season fast approaching.