Dbacks show interest in Sox catchers

[Vyle203]

So apparently the Sox want to keep all 3 catchers.

I know Leon is likely to be the starting C at the start, but the poll at the end of the article asks who the Sox should prioritize going forward.

Of Leon, Vasquez and Swihart, who should the Sox prioritize?

I still think Swihart has the most upside because of his offense, and willingness to work at improving his defensive ability.

 

[navamind]

I'd much rather have Swihart at this point. I don't think Vazquez will ever have a sufficient enough bat, and his glove is more above average than elite IMO. Even if he was an elite defender, I'm not sure it's enough to justify a 54 OPS+. He was just plain awful at the plate. At least Swihart has a 90 OPS+ throughout his MLB career (which is about average for the catcher position).

 

[Vyle203]

It could be an interesting battle if everybody is 100% healthy. I don't think the organization is sold on Leon going forward after he fell off a bit towards the end of last year.

 

[navamind]

It could be an interesting battle if everybody is 100% healthy. I don't think the organization is sold on Leon going forward after he fell off a bit towards the end of last year.

Anyone expecting him to bat in the neighborhood of a 120 OPS+ again is likely to be disappointed, but I don't think it's entirely unrealistic for him not to be a total black hole at the plate. With his defense, he doesn't have to hit that well to have value. I'd be thrilled if he posted a 90 OPS+. He's had pedestrian power numbers throughout his career, but he managed a .169 ISO (slightly above league average) last year. It gives some hope that he might hit for more power than he has before.

 

[Vyle203]

Anyone expecting him to bat in the neighborhood of a 120 OPS+ again is likely to be disappointed, but I don't think it's entirely unrealistic for him not to be a total black hole at the plate. With his defense, he doesn't have to hit that well to have value. I'd be thrilled if he posted a 90 OPS+. He's had pedestrian power numbers throughout his career, but he managed a .169 ISO (slightly above league average) last year. It gives some hope that he might hit for more power than he has before.

I think he will do better than 90 OPS+

 

[redseat]

I forgot all about Leon...

He can go