Atlanta Braves MAILBAG: When’s That Drake Baldwin Extension Coming?

Locked On Braves - Daily Podcast On The Atlanta Braves32mApril 24, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

In this week's Mailbag episode of Locked On Braves, host Jake Mastriani answers a series of fan questions from Twitter, focusing on key topics like Drake Baldwin's potential contract extension, Michael Harris's plate discipline, the Braves' unexpectedly strong starting rotation, and the team's lackluster base-running performance. Mastriani expresses strong confidence that a Baldwin extension is imminent, citing comps like Samuel Basayo’s $67 million deal and noting the financial implications of AAV and tax thresholds. He remains cautious about Harris’s recent hot streak, emphasizing the need for sustained improvement over 150+ at-bats before believing in a true swing profile change. Despite injuries, the Braves' rotation has exceeded expectations, while the team’s poor stolen base attempts and high pickoff rates have been a major disappointment. The host also discusses roster decisions, including the strategic rest of pitchers like Chris Sale and the limited trade value of Jonah Heim. The episode concludes with speculation on future call-ups, with few prospects currently poised for a major league debut.

Key Takeaways
1

Drake Baldwin’s extension is likely this season, with a potential deal resembling Samuel Basayo’s $67M, 8-year contract.

2

Michael Harris’s recent improved plate discipline is promising but needs sustained performance over 150+ at-bats to be credible.

3

The Braves’ starting rotation has been a major surprise, ranking third in ERA despite injuries and high expectations.

4

The team’s base-running has been a significant disappointment, ranking 26th in base running runs and negative in stolen bases.

5

The Braves are prioritizing pitcher health and rest over immediate roster trades, even with strong rotation depth.

Chapters
0:00
1 min

Welcome & Introduction

Host Jake Mastriani welcomes listeners to the Locked On Braves Mailbag episode, introduces the show's sponsor GameTime, and previews the fan questions to be answered.

1:00
2 min

Drake Baldwin Extension Outlook

I do think the odds are very good that we get a Drake Baldwin extension at some point this year.

Highlight
3:00
2 min

Michael Harris’s Plate Discipline & Hot Streak

I'll believe it when I see it over, you know, at least a two month stretch.

Highlight
5:00
2 min

Braves' Starting Rotation: Surprise & Strength

No one would have predicted that coming in with all the injuries.

Highlight
7:00
2 min

Base-Running Disappointment & Team Expectations

The host expresses frustration with the team’s poor base-running, calling it the biggest disappointment so far, despite high preseason expectations.

High-Impact Quotes
If I have to see another runner get picked off, I am going to lose my mind.
Jake Mastriani13:58
Viral: 85.0
I'll believe it when I see it over, you know, at least a two month stretch.
Jake Mastriani7:42
Viral: 80.0
I do think the odds are very good that we get a Drake Baldwin extension at some point this year.
Jake Mastriani1:59
Viral: 75.0
Speakers

Host

Jake Mastriani
Topics Discussed
Braves Starting Rotation Performance95%Drake Baldwin Extension90%Michael Harris Plate Discipline85%Pitcher Rest & Workload Management80%Base-Running & Stealing Bases80%Roster Management & Trade Strategy75%Ronald Acuna Jr. Performance70%Prospect Call-Ups & Depth65%
People & Brands

Atlanta Braves

other

20xPositive

Jake Mastriani

person

12xNeutral

Drake Baldwin

person

8xPositive

Michael Harris

person

7xMixed

GameTime

organization

6xPositive

Chris Sale

person

5xPositive

Fuentes

person

5xPositive

J.R. Ritchie

person

4xPositive

Philadelphia Phillies

other

4xNeutral

Ronald Acuna Jr.

person

4xNeutral

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