Why Braves are parting ways with Jonah Heim in trade to AL West team

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The Atlanta Braves brought Jonah Heim aboard after the Texas Rangers released him.

It was an intriguing addition. Heim has played in an All-Star Game and won a World Series ring. That's not a bad resume.

Heim lasted just more than a month of the regular season with Atlanta before being shipped off, though.

The Braves recently designated him for assignment, and now he's been officially traded away to the Athletics for cash.

A’s are acquiring catcher Jonah Heim from the Braves for cash, per source.

Heim, who played for the A’s in 2020, was recently DFA’d by the Braves.

— Martín Gallegos (@MartinJGallegos) May 5, 2026

Heim had hit .231 so far this season in 39 at bats with a home run and eight RBI.

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Why did the Braves trade Jonah Heim?

The Braves simply got healthier at the catcher position.

Sean Murphy wasn't around at the start of the year, but he is now.

Murphy joins youngster Drake Baldwin on a quality depth chart, so there was no room for Heim anymore.

The A's have Shea Langeliers, so Heim isn't looking at much playing time, but maybe he can push for the backup role.

It won't quite be the same as Heim's previous time with the A's, who were in Oakland when he was there but are now in Sacramento.

It's also a big midseason move across the country for Heim. Hopefully he's handling it OK, because it can't be easy.