Braves predicted to cut $1.25M World Series champ, Gold Glove winner with Sean Murphy return looming originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Atlanta Braves are beginning to slowly get some of their injured players back. One of those players is Sean Murphy, who attempted to play through pain last season but ultimately could not continue toward the end of the year. In fact, he hid the injury from the organization for a period of time.

“Sean Murphy's struggles over the past month were likely influenced by the right hip ailment that will be surgically repaired later this week,” MLB.com’s Mark Bowman wrote.

Murphy is now working his way back into form for Atlanta. He is set to begin his rehab assignment in Rome, where he will be joined by starting pitcher Spencer Strider.

“As it turns out, Thursday night will be a very good day for local fans in Rome to show up to the ballpark and for Braves fans in general to keep an eye on the Rome Emperors. Walt Weiss spoke with the media before Tuesday’s night middle game between the Braves and the Marlins and revealed that Spencer Strider will be joining Sean Murphy in Rome to begin his rehab assignment as well,” Battery Power’s Demetrius Bell wrote.

With Murphy returning, there is growing belief that backup catcher Jonah Heim could be the odd man out.

“Furthermore, Heim has done little to strengthen his case with his on-field performance. Entering Thursday, he owns a 46 wRC+ and a -0.1 fWAR—marks that significantly undercut his roster viability. In contrast, Mateo and White provide added value with their baserunning, making Heim appear to be the most likely odd man out in this scenario. Ultimately, Smith’s breakout has reshaped the Braves’ roster outlook in a matter of weeks. What once appeared to be a temporary solution at designated hitter has evolved into a legitimate everyday role,”