Travis d'Arnaud Landing Spots: 3 potential destinations for Silver Slugger catcher after Braves decline club option for 2025

On Monday, the Atlanta Braves decided to decline their club option on veteran catcher Travis d'Arnaud, making him an unrestricted free agent. The team could pick up the former Silver Slugger's $8 million option for 2025. However, this was not the case, and now the 35-year-old will test his value on the free agent market.

Travis d'Arnaud has been an important role player for the Atlanta Braves over the past five seasons, particularly when fellow catcher Sean Murphy was injured. Although his career may be on the downtrend, he enjoyed a decent 2024 campaign, posting a .238 batting average with 15 home runs and 48 RBIs.

Aside from his offensive contributions, his defensive versatility should help him land a new contract sooner rather than later. It would be unsurprising to see many contenders vying for d'Arnaud's signature this offseason.

Here's a look at three potential landing spots for Travis d'Arnaud in free agency

#1 - Chicago Cubs

It was a disappointing year for the Chicago Cubs as they failed to reach the playoffs for the fourth consecutive season. The Cubs could be in for a busy offseason as they look to return to contention. Enter d'Arnaud, who could help bolster one of their areas of weakness.

The catching position is a spot that needs to be addressed by the Chicago Cubs front office, and Travis d'Arnaud could be an affordable option for the position. The 2021 World Series champion could bring championship experience to the club and some quality at-bats in the bottom half of the order. Seeing the Cubs look in on the veteran backstop would be unsurprising.

#2 - New York Yankees

Although the New York Yankees could not bring home a championship, reaching the World Series was impressive for the franchise. Yankees GM Brian Cashman and the rest of the front office will be busy retooling the roster with d'Arnaud being a name they should consider.

While Austin Wells enjoyed a strong season for the Bronx Bombers, Travis d'Arnaud could be considered one of the best backup options in the MLB. If the Yankees are going to get over the hump and win their first title since 2009, they can't afford to leave any stone unturned.

#3 - San Diego Padres

Another top contender that could use some help at the catcher position are the San Diego Padres. Like the Yankees, the Padres have a strong roster and should look to improve wherever they can. As previously mentioned, d'Arnaud is defensively versatile and an above-average batter for his position, so the Padres should definitely be calling on the veteran.