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The Atlanta Braves are not waiting for January to make their next move on the international prospect market. According to insider Francys Romero, the club has agreed to a deal with Cuban catcher Anthony Caldern, a 17-year-old who will receive a $350,000 signing bonus during the current international signing period. The agreement remains contingent on Caldern passing a physical.
Romero described Caldern as possessing a well-rounded skill set that includes power, hitting ability, leadership behind the plate, defensive skills, and arm strength. Back in June, Romero reported that three or four teams were still pursuing Caldern. Ultimately, the Braves appear to have emerged victorious in that pursuit.
Needed Help in Braves System
If the deal is finalized, Atlanta would add much-needed catching depth to its minor league system. Drake Baldwin is the clear top option at the position, but the organization's depth behind him has been a problem area. Sean Murphy has dealt with injuries and inconsistencies since the 2023 season, and the Braves used eight different catchers during the 2026 campaign. Without Baldwin, who also sees significant time at designated hitter, the team has had almost no offensive production from the catcher spot.
Currently, only one catcher appears in MLB.com's top-30 prospects for the Braves: Jack Brenner, the club's 2026 seventh-round pick. Brenner shows promise with his bat, but his arm is rated just a 45 on the 20-to-80 scouting scale. Nevertheless, the Braves were willing to give him just under $1.3 million as a seventh-rounder, indicating they see real potential in him. Now, Caldern will join Brenner as another catching prospect in the system.
It remains to be seen whether Caldern will develop into a top-30 prospect. However, at 17 years old, he is likely to begin his professional career in the Rookie-level Dominican Summer League before moving to the Rookie-level Florida Complex League. After a year or so, he could start climbing the ladder if he proves ready.