The Braves selected the contract of catcher John Ryan Murphy on Tuesday, the team announced. The move corresponded with placing utilityman Charlie Culberson on the 60-day injured list after he sustained a fractured right cheekbone Saturday.
Murphy was acquired at the trade deadline from Arizona, boosting the Braves’ organizational catcher depth. He’ll be the fourth catcher on the 40-man, joining Brian McCann, Tyler Flowers and Francisco Cervelli. The latter is dealing with a lacerated finger but should return within a week.
Murphy gives the team another catcher during the final two weeks. He might receive playing time after the team clinches the National League East, which would happen Wednesday at the earliest.
Known more for defense than bat, Murphy has hit .177/.250/.419 with four homers and seven RBIs in 25 games this season, all with the Diamondbacks.
Culberson was ruled out for the season Sunday, when it was revealed he suffered multiple facial fractures but won’t require surgery after getting hit in the face by a pitch while attempting to bunt.
The Braves’ beloved teammate and versatile on-field piece is expected to be fully ready for spring training 2020, manager Brian Snitker said.
