Oakland Athletics Acquire Jonah Heim From Atlanta Braves in Cash-Only Transaction
The Athletics add switch-hitting Jonah Heim to clear a roster spot for Sean Murphy, who returns to the lineup against the Seattle Mariners.
The Oakland Athletics have acquired switch-hitting catcher Jonah Heim from the Atlanta Braves in a cash-only transaction executed on Monday night. This unusual roster adjustment occurred between two teams currently leading their respective divisions, with the Athletics holding the top spot in the AL West and the Braves maintaining the best record in the majors within the NL East.
The trade was facilitated by the Braves designating Heim for assignment to make room on the roster for catcher Sean Murphy. Murphy, an All-Star and Gold Glove winner, had been rehabbing in the minors following right hip surgery before returning to the lineup. He made his season debut Monday night against the Seattle Mariners, starting behind the plate and batting seventh.
Heim, who spent the 2021 to 2025 seasons with the Texas Rangers, joins the Athletics having previously played for the club in 2020. His tenure with the Rangers included a stint as an All-Star and Gold Glove winner on the 2023 World Series-winning team. With the Athletics, the primary catcher remains Shea Langeliers, who is currently batting .336 with 10 home runs and 18 RBIs.
During his brief time with the Braves, Heim posted a .231 average with one home run, eight RBIs, and a .721 OPS across 12 games. The Atlanta organization also has 2025 NL Rookie of the Year Drake Baldwin available at the position, who began the day batting .315 with eight homers and 29 RBIs.
The Athletics are currently leading the AL West with a record of 18–16, while the Braves hold a 25–10 record. This transaction represents a strategic move by both institutions to optimise their catching depth ahead of the season's progression.
