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3 Catchers the Orioles Could Pursue In Free Agency
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- 3 Catchers the Orioles Could Pursue In Free Agency
(IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
The Baltimore Orioles could look to bolster their catching depth this offseason to better complement starter Samuel Basallo who they inked to an eight-year, $67 million extension last August.
While Basallo is backed up by Yohel Pozo and recent trade acquisition Carlos Narváez, it certainly wouldn't hurt for general manager Mike Elias to test the waters in this year's free agent market.
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With that, here are a few potential targets that I think Baltimore should have a chance at landing this offseason:
Ryan Jeffers
The 29-year-old is coming off a solid final season for the Minnesota Twins in which he batted .256 while driving in 56 runs and recording an .814 OPS. Jeffers also excelled when it came to ABS challenges, winning 66 out of the 108 he initiated this season. As a result, Jeffers clearly has an eye for the zone, a crucial characteristic of a major-league catcher.
While the Twins had a disappointing end to their season, Jeffers had a strong performance on Sept. 1 against the Detroit Tigers, going 2-for-4 at the plate and launching a home run. He also drove in three runs.
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Jeffers likely won't be cheap given the year he had, but signing him could be worth it for the Orioles due to his leadership and superb game calling that has earned the trust of his pitchers.
Carson Kelly
Kelly had a remarkable year of his own, hitting .258 while launching 10 home runs and knocking in 58 RBI for the Chicago Cubs. While he is a Chicago native, the 32-year-old may have the drive to build a name for himself outside his hometown.
With Baltimore seeking to fill the void left behind by former All-Star Adley Rutschman, Elias might be able to sell Kelly on joining a lineup that is an experienced catcher away from possibly contending.
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Kelly recorded a single hit during the postseason as the Cubs were eliminated in the Wild Card round by the San Diego Padres. Even then, he had a decent showing on Sept. 16, going 2-for-4 and scoring a run to help Chicago come out with an 8-4 win over the Atlanta Braves.
James McCann
The former Oriole turned Arizona Diamondback may be open to a reunion this offseason as Arizona owner Ken Kendrick hinted at the chance of a lower payroll next season. With Baltimore's ownership willing to invest when needed and McCann already having familiarity with a couple of the Orioles' arms, a deal makes sense for both sides.
McCann wrapped up the season with an impressive .282 hitting average across 52 games. Despite him being 36, McCann could provide the mentorship that Basallo and the rest of Baltimore's catcher room need.
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McCann also drove in 28 runs while recording a .766 OPS and launching seven home runs, having one of his better games on Sept. 24, going 2-for-5 and plating two runs in the Diamondbacks' 12-8 win over the Colorado Rockies.
