Slugger Shavings 2044.05 - Catching Decisions

[sjshaw]

LOU has change in the catcher room for the first time in several years, after losing C José 'Goose' Alba and his average 1.15 WAR from the long side.

LOU decided to refrain from finding a new C in FA; instead, we will turn to the 9th overall pick from 2040, C Philitis Tsafento. Tsafento will be given every chance to man the long side in Alba's absence. While our scouts aren't quite as high on Tsafento's hit tool as they were in 2040, his defense is as-advertised, and he has worked hard to develop an above-average eye.

Manning the short side again will be C Calvin Johnson. The switch-hitting Johnson (hehehehehe) sees the ball better from the right side, but is certainly capable of manning the position full-time if needed. Johnson remains quite loyal to the franchise despite being openly shopped on the trade market last season. Two rings will help with that.

Odd men out appear to be former 4th round pick C Ben Scott and mLFA C Jack Woods. Scott has above-average power and Woods has developed into a patient, if inconsistent hitter. Neither has the defensive and pitcher-whispering chops of Tsafento or Johnson. If injuries require us to call them into action, LOU might engage with some trade partners.