Drake Baldwin Claims National League Rookie Award, Secures Braves PPI Pick
Drake Baldwin, the catcher for the Atlanta Braves, has been awarded the 2025 National League Rookie of the Year title by the Baseball Writers Association of America. This recognition not only highlights Baldwin’s impressive performance but also secures an additional draft pick for the Braves due to the Prospect Promotion Incentive (PPI).
2025 Rookie of the Year Voting Results
In the voting results, Cade Horton from the Chicago Cubs finished in second place, while Caleb Durbin of the Milwaukee Brewers claimed third. This year’s awards recognize player performances that significantly impact their teams.
Impact of the Prospect Promotion Incentive
With Baldwin winning this award, the Braves will receive a bonus draft pick following the first round of the 2026 MLB Draft. This move is a strategic advantage, especially under the current collective bargaining agreement aimed at preventing service time manipulation.
Baldwin’s Performance in the 2025 Season
- Baldwin had 446 plate appearances over 124 games.
- He recorded 19 home runs.
- His batting average was .274 with an on-base percentage of .341 and a slugging percentage of .469.
- He achieved a weighted Runs Created Plus (wRC+) of 125, indicating he performed 25% better than the average hitter.
- Defensively, Baldwin was seen as slightly below average, yet still contributed positively to the team.
His performance earned him 3.1 wins above replacement through the season. Baldwin’s ability to step up after an injury to Sean Murphy in early March allowed him to secure his position on the team. Despite Murphy returning to health, Baldwin maintained a substantial role throughout the season.
Looking Ahead
Baldwin was regarded as one of the top prospects entering the 2025 season, having previously finished the 2024 season in Triple-A. His emergence as a key player has not only elevated his career but has also significantly benefited the Braves’ roster and future prospects.
Looking ahead, the Braves will aim to leverage Baldwin’s talents further, especially with the added advantage of a bonus draft pick in 2026. This development marks an exciting time for Atlanta’s baseball strategy and player development initiatives.
