Pittsburgh Pirates: Assessing Position Players For The Second Half
Catchers
Jul 4, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates catcher
Russell Martin(55) hits an RBI single against the Philadelphia Phillies during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
This position was tested when Russell Martin was injured and with Chris Stewart and Tony Sanchez replacing him, there was a clear void. This is a huge concern moving beyond this season. Martin’s contract is up this off-season and although he may be the most important player to sign, the Pirates may not be able to afford him. That is an issue for another day though.
Russell Martin– Martin is a natural leader of this team. He came into the season admittedly at less than full strength and hit .241 for the month. He was on the disabled list from April 26 through May 22. Since then the batting average is up and the defense is exactly what you would expect from him. Martin’s offensive numbers are nothing special but despite injury has thrown out 21 runners and his pitch framing is still a valuable asset. He will be missed when the team cannot afford his contract in the off-season. Grade A-
Chris Stewart– Probably one of the more consistent defenders as a back up but other than Sunday’s win against Colorado, he has made John McDonald look like Barry Bonds. Stewart was even quoted stating it was strange for him to have two doubles at all. I am not a big fan on his. I am not asking for much in the backup catcher position but I want a little bit of offense and defense. Stewart has one of those. Grade D+
Tony Sanchez– Okay let’s throw away the Frozen jokes. The offense is not bad, but the defense is. That’s the reason why he is stuck in the minor leagues. He will continue to stay there because the Pirates do have a lot invested in him. In reality his defensive inabilities make me nervous about the catching situation beyond the 2014 season. Stewart is essentially a rental player, they have to find a legitimate starter in 2015. Right now, Tony Sanchez is not that guy. Grade C-