Tough Injury Break For the Braves After Just One Game

 It was opening day for the Atlanta Braves, but they're already forced to place a key regular on the injured list as catcher Sean Murphy has suffered a strained oblique.

The Braves are placing Sean Murphy on the IL pic.twitter.com/fn2OJDof3j

— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) March 29, 2024

After an awkward swing in the seventh inning, Murphy grabbed his side and immediately exited the game, a contest that the Braves would go on to win 9-3 over the Philadelphia Phillies. 

#Braves Sean Murphy left the game injured today.

Broadcast stated it’s a possible oblique.

Murphy sustained the injury on this swing. pic.twitter.com/WGKPVOZu3m

— Mike Kurland (@Mike_Kurland) March 29, 2024

Oblique injuries are a tricky situation, and often take longer than expected to recover from. The Braves won't know the severity of the injury or how long Murphy will be sidelined until he undergoes further testing. But don't expect him back for perhaps close to a month.

35-year-old veteran Travis d'Arnaud will take over the starting catching duties in Murphy's absence, and he, of course, is plenty capable of handling the load. 

The 29-year-old Murphy joined the Braves in a three-team, nine-player blockbuster trade before the 2023 season. Atlanta immediately signed him to a massive long-term deal and he went on to reward them with his first All-Star appearance. He batted .251 with a slew of career highs, including an .844 OPS, 21 homers, 68 RBIs and an OPS+ of 125. He also provided his usual excellent play behind the plate.

Photo: Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports