2012 Indians Catchers

This will more than likely be the easiest blog I have ever written. This is truly the position going into this season that was already set going into this season. So let's get this one started. Sorry about not posting more sooner.

Santana

Carlos Santana will be the main backstop for the Indians next season. After starting very slowly last year coming off a horrible knee injury he started to heat up. Even though his overall batting average was .239, he hit 27 home runs and had a .350 on base percentage. There is high expectations for this kid to really be an all-star of the future for the Indians. Last year was actually his first full season so this year he has more experience underneath his belt and should have a much better season. Now he is struggle in spring but it is still early. He is only an average defensive catcher so he does need to produce with his bat.

Marson

Lou Marson is the backup for Santana. He has not hit well since coming over to Cleveland in the Cliff Lee trade but has actually played better than expected defensively. Marson has the potential to become a gold glover behind the plate. Teams also avoid running on him as well since he is honestly one of the harder catchers to run off in the league. He will start often against left handed pitchers and probably still have his 5th day start as well. I am not sure if Acta will always have his catchers catch certain pitchers or not.





Marson and Santana will catch the entire season as long as they are healthy. Indians only have those two as catchers on their 40 man roster. Indians are taking a gamble with this since normally teams will carry at least three catchers. Now there are two more that people should know the name of. One is the third catcher in the organization's depth chart and the other is a top catching prospect. Though do not be surprised if we acquire another catcher if Santana or Marson goes down long term.

Carlin

Luke Carlin is our third catcher in the Indians organization. He has limited major league experience but has been part of the AAA's team back to back championships in the minors. He has been a solid catcher but still lacks some skills with the bat. Many of the young pitchers have worked with Carlin so there is some familiar there with them.

Chen

Chun-Hsiu Chen is another name you may need to know. 17th ranked prospect on the Indians minor leagues and this is his first major league camp. His prospect rating more than likely will increase with another good season. He was only at AA so it is to be expected he will start at AA this year and spend some time at AAA. I don't expect him up before September of 2013 but injuries could bring him up early if the season is not going well for the Indians since they are high on this kid.