Reds Scouting Catchers

by Eli Greenspan on Mar 18, 2008 6:03 PM EDT

Word out of Reds camp is that they are looking for an everyday catcher. They are worried about David Ross behind the plate and want someone who can play most of the time, if not everyday this season. Here some possibilities for the Reds:

Michael Barrett, Padres: The Padres have Colt Morton and could have him backup to Josh Bard if they traded Barrett. If the Padres could land an outfielder and a minor league pitcher it might be worth it. However, Barrett was solid in 2006 and is likely to return to form if he plays enough. I think this is the best bet for the Reds. Barrett hit a combined .290 AVG with 48 HR and 179 RBI in 179 games under Dusty Baker, who happens to be their new manager. Playing under his good friend and other former teammates, in a division he is familiar with might allow him to return to 2006 form.

Jeff Clement, Mariners: Although he is young, if the Mariners could force the Reds to part with one of their young guns, they might be able to land him. Then they would have a long term catcher who has a lot of potential. Would it take Homer Bailey? They have Cueto and Volquez, so he might be expendable. It is also possible we could see Johjima instead of Clement, but I think it is unlikely.

Jeff Mathis, Angels: If the Reds wanted to take a chance on Mathis, maybe they could offer Matt Belisle. The Angels need pitching and acquiring the young Mathis might do the trick. He isn't a guarantee star though, so they probably would like a solid back up.

Brandon Inge, Tigers: You know the story. The Reds could jump in at the last minute and make Inge their everyday catcher, but I do not know how interested he is in playing there.

Other less likely possibilities include Ramon Hernandez, Gregg Zaun, and Josh Phelps. I think they might trade for a catcher, but it has been all talk this offseason so they might just stick with Ross.

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The Reds will have to offer the Padres a sweet deal to part with Barrett. Barrett was a free agent and decided to return to the Padres. The Reds won't part with Bruce, but Norris Hopper and 1 or 2 minor leaguers such as Drew Stubbs, OF, or Devin Mesoraco, c, may do the trick.

by Anonymous on Mar 18, 2008 10:31 PM EDT reply actions

Perhaps asking for Jay Bruce in return for Michael Barret would be a tad ambitious. As would be asking for one of the Reds' other first round draft picks for a back up catcher. It's Michael Barret, not Pudge in his prime.

by Anonymous on Mar 18, 2008 11:17 PM EDT reply actions

you are forgetting Barrett's numbers before his poor year this year. Yes, not pudge, but he does have some value.

by Eli on Mar 18, 2008 11:27 PM EDT reply actions

There's a potential front line catcher serving as a back-up just a few hours north of Cincinnati. Not sure the Tribe would part with Kelly Shoppach but he's a lot more talented than some of the other retreads being mentioned. Krivsky and Shapiro have done business before. If Marte turns out to truly be a bust, the Tribe might have interest in Encarnacion.

by Anonymous on Mar 19, 2008 8:02 AM EDT reply actions

Barrett's bat is attractive, but his handling of pitchers isn't something Dusty would want for his inexperienced staff. Plus, too many clubhouse controversies.

by Anonymous on Mar 19, 2008 12:52 PM EDT reply actions