Mathis was designated for assignment to clear a spot for Kevan Smith. He'll head to Triple-A and provide organizational depth. 

This move clears out a 40-man roster spot for fellow catcher Kevan Smith, who was acquired from the Rays on Wednesday. Mathis, 38, had gone 0-for-9 with five strikeouts in his short time with Atlanta.

The 38-year-old signed a minor league deal with the Braves after being released by the Phillies. William Contreras is expected to see the bulk of the playing time with Travis d'Arnaud out, but Mathis should see at-bats with Alex Jackson also making a trip to the injured list.

Mathis was recently released by the Phillies after it was clear he wasn't making the Opening Day roster. Given Travis d'Arnaud's injury history, it's not a bad idea for the Braves to gather some veteran depth behind the plate.