J.T. Realmuto leads MLB catchers as the highest-paid player for the 2025 season, earning $23.9 million. His contract, valued at $115.5 million over five years, underscores the value of elite catchers in today's game. The list of top-earning catchers also features Salvador Perez and Willson Contreras, with salaries of $21.8 million and $18 million, respectively. With only seven catchers earning over $10 million, the position remains underappreciated in terms of salary.

Sean Murphy and Mitch Garver round out the top five with earnings of $15 million and $12.5 million. Interestingly, the financial disparity among catchers highlights their critical but often overlooked role, especially as only 16 receive an annual salary of at least $5 million. The figures, compiled by USA TODAY, reflect present-day contract values, including deferrals and bonuses, providing insight into the financial landscape of MLB.

As Week 5 of the 2025 fantasy baseball season approaches, several catchers are positioned to make an impact on waiver wires. Sean Murphy of the Atlanta Braves stands out, boasting six home runs in his first 14 games this season after returning from injury. His recent performance suggests he could be a reliable starter and a streaming option, particularly with three upcoming games in Coors Field against a struggling Colorado pitching staff.

Francisco Alvarez of the New York Mets is another catcher worth targeting as he returns from injury. His power potential remains intact despite a disappointing 2024 season. With a favorable seven-game schedule against weaker pitching, he could quickly return to form. For deeper leagues, Agustin Ramirez from the Miami Marlins is making waves, hitting .700 with a home run in his first three major league games. Ryan Jeffers of the Minnesota Twins, now gaining more playing time, looks to capitalize on favorable matchups as he transitions to an everyday catcher role. These players represent potential game-changers for fantasy owners seeking to bolster their catching lineup.

On April 22, the St. Louis Cardinals (9-14) face off against the Atlanta Braves (9-13) at Truist Park. Andre Pallante is set to pitch for the Cardinals while Nathan Wiles will make his MLB debut for the Braves after a promising stint in the minors. The Braves won last night’s matchup, with Sean Murphy hitting his fifth home run of the season and contributing to a five-run eighth inning.

The Braves have been on a four-game winning streak, whereas the Cardinals have struggled on the road, losing 12 of their last 15 games. Experts suggest betting on the Braves to win and anticipate the total runs to exceed 8.0.

The Atlanta Braves triumphed over the Toronto Blue Jays with an 8-4 victory, driven by a stellar performance from Austin Riley, who recorded five RBIs through two home runs, including a three-run shot in the fifth inning. Sean Murphy contributed with a two-run blast in the first inning, setting the tone early for Atlanta. Pitcher Grant Holmes dominated on the mound, striking out four and allowing just three earned runs over 7 2/3 innings. The Blue Jays struggled, with Easton Lucas giving up eight earned runs in five innings. Myles Straw’s solo homer marked Toronto’s first hit of the game.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr., playing his first game since a significant contract extension, received cheers from the crowd, but the team couldn't capitalize on his presence. Injury concerns loom for the Blue Jays with Max Scherzer on the IL and George Springer listed as day-to-day due to wrist inflammation. Looking ahead, Kevin Gausman is expected to start against Spencer Schwellenbach in Tuesday's matchup.

Austin Riley showcased his power hitting as he drove in five runs with two home runs, leading the Atlanta Braves to an 8-4 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays. The offense ignited early, with Sean Murphy contributing a two-run homer in the first inning off Blue Jays starter Easton Lucas. Riley's explosive fifth inning sealed the deal, adding a three-run blast to double Atlanta's lead. Starting pitcher Grant Holmes dominated with 7⅔ innings, allowing only two hits and three earned runs, while striking out four. Toronto's Vladimir Guerrero Jr. received a warm welcome in his first home game since signing a lucrative contract extension. Max Scherzer's absence due to a thumb injury was a talking point as the Blue Jays look to recover.