The A’s used three different primary catchers in two-and-a-half seasons since cutting Stephen Vogt in 2017. Bruce Maxwell took over after the controversial decision was made that June. Jonathan Lucroy was the starter in 2018, and Josh Phegley took over the following year, though those three-plus options were never long-term solutions.
Maybe they were creating a bridge to Sean Murphy. The construction is now complete, as the 24-year old enters this season as the presumptive starter.
Frankly, Bob Melvin couldn’t be more excited. The former catcher and current A’s manager believes Murphy has the skills and work ethic required to excel at the highest level.