All articles tagged with #catcher
The Chicago White Sox signed catcher Reese McGuire to a one-year, $1.2 million contract to bolster catching depth as Kyle Teel recovers from a Grade 2 hamstring injury (roughly 4–6 weeks). McGuire reunites with the Sox after a previous stint in 2022, joining peers Edgar Quero and Korey Lee on the depth chart. The move provides a veteran, glove-first option behind the plate while the team navigates the injury and potential roster juggling.
The Mets claimed catcher Ben Rortvedt off waivers from the Dodgers to add depth behind Francisco Alvarez and Luis Torrens, moving Dedniel Nunez to the 60-day IL to clear 40-man space. Rortvedt, a defensively solid catcher with major-league experience, could push Hayden Senger for a depth role, and his lack of remaining options means the Mets will need to manage the 40-man roster as spring training approaches.
The Rays weighed a big catcher upgrade this winter and were linked to J.T. Realmuto before he re-signed with the Phillies for three years and $45 million. With Nick Fortes and Hunter Feduccia atop Tampa Bay’s catching depth and a payroll around $80 million, Tampa Bay could have faced salary constraints that might have required moving a major piece (potentially Yandy Díaz) to fit Realmuto. Realmuto’s market moved quickly, and the Rays—who rarely pursue free agents—were seen favoring trades over big-ticket signings, with potential fit partners including Royals, Cardinals, or Pirates.
Drake Baldwin of the Atlanta Braves won the National League Jackie Robinson Rookie of the Year award, becoming the first catcher since 2010 to do so and the seventh overall in NL history, marking a significant achievement for the Braves with Baldwin being the only player on all ballots.
The San Francisco Giants considered trading catcher Patrick Bailey at the deadline due to their poor recent performance, but ultimately decided against it given his defensive excellence, long-term team control, and the potential impact of new umpire challenge systems on his framing skills. Bailey, a highly regarded defensive catcher and future team asset, remains with the Giants as they focus on other offseason priorities.
Salvador Perez has signed a two-year extension with the Kansas City Royals, ensuring his stay through the 2026-27 seasons with a $25 million guarantee, including a signing bonus, reflecting his importance to the team despite mixed advanced metrics and some defensive flaws.
Jorge Alfaro has cleared waivers and elected free agency after a brief stint with the Nationals, with his offensive and defensive metrics suggesting he is best suited as a backup catcher. He joins a limited pool of free agent catchers, likely seeking a minor league deal to continue his career.
The Cleveland Guardians are re-signing catcher Austin Hedges to a one-year, $4.5 million deal, emphasizing his defensive skills and game-calling abilities despite limited offensive production. Hedges, in his third straight year with the team, remains a key defensive asset, especially with the upcoming challenge system in MLB. The Guardians are focusing on maintaining their core players and are unlikely to make major free-agent moves this offseason.
Dodgers catcher Will Smith has a hairline fracture in his hand, casting doubt on his availability for the postseason. Smith, a key offensive and defensive player, may miss the playoffs, leading the Dodgers to rely on backup Ben Rortvedt, who is known for his defense but lacks offensive production. The team faces challenges in maintaining their performance without Smith, especially with a shaky bullpen and the need for offensive support.
Cal Raleigh, the Seattle Mariners catcher, broke the MLB single-season home run record for a primary catcher by hitting his 49th home run of the season, showcasing impressive power and versatility, and challenging MVP frontrunner Aaron Judge.
Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners set a new single-season home run record for catchers with 49 homers, achieving the feat with two powerful shots against the Athletics, and is now close to challenging the MLB switch-hitter record and the American League home run record, while also surpassing previous catcher benchmarks and establishing himself as a top hitter in the league.
Baltimore Orioles signed top catching prospect Samuel Basallo to an eight-year deal worth up to $88.5 million, securing his services through his 20s and potentially controlling his arbitration and free agency years at a low cost, based on his high offensive potential.
Francisco Alvarez of the Mets is sidelined with a thumb injury, which could impact his performance for the rest of the season, following previous injuries and a recent surge in his batting performance. The Mets face challenges in replacing him, relying on Luis Torrens, whose OPS is notably lower. The team is in a tight playoff race, emphasizing the importance of Alvarez's return. Meanwhile, Francisco Lindor has been performing well, and the Mets have made roster adjustments, including releasing Paul Blackburn.
The article discusses the Philadelphia Phillies' considerations in re-signing catcher J.T. Realmuto, highlighting his improved offensive and defensive performance, the reduced prospect depth behind him, and the challenging free agent market for catchers, raising the question of whether his re-signing should be a priority alongside Kyle Schwarber.
The Boston Red Sox claimed catcher Ali Sanchez off waivers from the Toronto Blue Jays and added him to their roster in San Diego, as they navigate potential roster adjustments due to injuries and player performance issues, particularly concerning catcher Carlos Narváez.