Tom Murphy DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

The San Francisco Giants are saying that catcher Tom Murphy (back) is dealing with a mid-back disc herniation. Murphy will receive an epidural injection and be re-evaluated "in the next few weeks." As a result, it looks like Murphy will not be ready to go as the team's backup catcher for Opening Day in late March. Patrick Bailey is San Fran's unquestioned starting catcher entering the 2025 season, but with Murphy injured again, Sam Huff and Max Stassi will be competing for the backup role for the rest of spring training. The 33-year-old Murphy was only able to suit up in 13 games for the Giants in 2024 after signing a two-year deal last offseason due to a knee injury. When healthy, Murphy could have some sneaky power upside as a second catcher in two-catcher formats, but it's now looking like he could miss a significant portion to open the 2025 season.

San Francisco Giants catcher Tom Murphy (oblique) has a mild oblique strain at spring training, according to manager Bob Melvin. The hope is that Murphy can get into a game in seven to 10 days. Murphy underwent an MRI exam recently after the Giants initially reported the 33-year-old veteran backstop was dealing with back spasms over the weekend. It's a setback for Murphy, who played in just 12 games in 2024 with the Giants due to a sprained MCL in his left knee, but he still has plenty of time to get ready for Opening Day in late March. When Murphy is healthy, he'll be the No. 2 catcher in San Fran and split playing time with Patrick Bailey. As long as Bailey remains healthy in 2025, Murphy should be considered a catching option only in two-catcher leagues for his power with the lumber. Murphy has a career .239 batting average and has never hit more than 18 home runs in his nine MLB seasons.

According to Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle, Giants catcher Tom Murphy (back) is dealing with back spasms and is set to undergo an MRI. Slusser noted the injury is not expected to be serious, but it is concerning as Murphy was only able to play in 13 games last season. Fantasy managers should continue to monitor his status during spring training as he could be in danger of losing the No. 2 role if he continues to miss time. Across his small stint last season, the 33-year-old held a .118/.221/.235 line with one home run. However, during the 2023 campaign, Murphy was quite effective at the plate as he held a .290/.335/.538 line with eight home runs across 47 games. If Murphy were to continue to miss time, Sam Huff could earn the backup job behind Patrick Bailey.