Keep up with all the Braves news, big and small, in updates from new beat writer Chad Bishop and some of our other sports writers.

Alvarez said Wednesday he has never played catcher before at any level, despite his high school coach in California always suggesting he do so.

The Braves desperately need a pitcher like Chris Bassitt. He’s good, he’s durable and he’s still on the free-agent market as spring training begins.

All eyes were already on the Atlanta Braves potentially adding another starting pitcher. The need becomes more urgent with Spencer Schwellenbach shelved.

Catcher had hip surgery in September.

Heim, 30, has played six seasons and earned an All-Star appearance in 2023. He spent the past five years with the Texas Rangers, helping them win the World Series in 2023.

Starting pitcher has inflammation in his right elbow.

“It’s just going to be fun to bop around and not have duties,” Snitker, who retired from managing the Braves shortly before he turned 70 in October, said of his new role.

Pitchers and catchers begin workouts Tuesday, with full squad joining Sunday.