I suppose with the acquisition of Blake Hunt yesterday we only need one of these guys. Garver seems like an upgrade based on stats, post-season experience, and positional versatility. But Murphy is the safer bet. I’d stick with him and only chase Garver if Murphy indicates he wants to shop around. M’s front office needs to focus on other acquisitions and Raleigh/Murphy gives them one of the best catching situations in the league.
The Mariners and their fans have every reason to want Tom Murphy back.
But think of the situation from Murphy’s perspective. Does the free agent want to sign to back up Cal Raleigh again? Or does Murphy, who turns 33 years old Opening Week 2024, want a shot at a deserved starting role at a possible higher salary?
Murphy is the best back-up catcher option here given he’s the known quantity, but I would be happy to see them sign Garver, too. He can take DH bats, be the backstop, and play some first base which makes him a potential DH/third catcher/bench bat similar to his role in Texas this year.
it is also about relationship with the pitchers, not only stats
I suppose with the acquisition of Blake Hunt yesterday we only need one of these guys. Garver seems like an upgrade based on stats, post-season experience, and positional versatility. But Murphy is the safer bet. I’d stick with him and only chase Garver if Murphy indicates he wants to shop around. M’s front office needs to focus on other acquisitions and Raleigh/Murphy gives them one of the best catching situations in the league.
The Mariners and their fans have every reason to want Tom Murphy back.
But think of the situation from Murphy’s perspective. Does the free agent want to sign to back up Cal Raleigh again? Or does Murphy, who turns 33 years old Opening Week 2024, want a shot at a deserved starting role at a possible higher salary?
it is also about relationship with the pitchers, not only stats
Murphy is the best back-up catcher option here given he’s the known quantity, but I would be happy to see them sign Garver, too. He can take DH bats, be the backstop, and play some first base which makes him a potential DH/third catcher/bench bat similar to his role in Texas this year.
I would like to see the Mariners trade for Salvador Perez, who can back up Raleigh as well as fill in at First Base and DH.