For backup catchers, life in MLB isn’t as glamorous as it may seem. Often, they play only once a week, appearing in blowouts, rain-delayed games or day games following a late night game.
And yet, backup catchers are expected to stay fresh, with limited opportunities to hone their craft.
“If you are going to be a backup catcher and stay in the big leagues for a long time, you better be able to catch, throw, block balls in the dirt and call a good game,” Royals manager Ned Yost said. “That’s where your value comes from. Whatever you hit, from that point on, is just going to be gravy.