Tromp qualified for minor league free agency last week after finishing the year in the Red Sox’ farm system. The Aruba-born catcher had hit just .135/.183/.167 in 28 games for Boston’s top affiliate. That predictably didn’t get him an MLB look. Tromp had made eight big league appearances earlier this season, splitting that time between Atlanta and Baltimore. He had started the season as Atlanta’s backup catcher behind the eventual Rookie of the Year Drake Baldwinas Sean Murphy was sidelined for the first few weeks due to a broken rib.
When Murphy returned, the Braves pushed the out-of-options Tromp off the roster. He opted for free agency and signed a minor league deal with Baltimore. Tromp didn’t hit well at any level last season and is a career .245/.318/.398 hitter through parts of eight Triple-A seasons. He owns a .221/.230/.390 line in 178 Major League plate appearances spanning six years.
The Braves don’t expect Tromp to bring much to the plate. They clearly like him as a defender and clubhouse presence, so he’s a nice addition to the depth. Baldwin and Murphy are the only two catchers on the 40-man roster. The latter comes after hip surgery that takes place at the end of the season. He is expected to be fully ready for spring training. Tromp wouldn’t have a good path to the active roster if Baldwin and Murphy are healthy, although the team could opt to carry three catchers if they plan to DH one of Murphy or Baldwin every day. Tromp is the only other catcher in the organization with MLB experience.
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