Before we fit Bengie Molina for a Mets uniform there are some catchers that may be available via trade.

Ryan Doumit – Interesting name because he can play multiple positions. He has manned 1b and RF during his career. Doumit reportedly is available due to his remaining two years and eight million left on his contract. Offensively he might be the best receiver the Mets could acquire since he has power and gets on base. Defensively he is a below average catcher although he has thrown out 29% of would be base stealers during his career. Knowing the team’s preference for game calling and defense Doumit wouldn’t be the best option.

Gerald Laird – Interesting that we spoke about his brother earlier today. Laird is a liability offensively and has caught more than 120 games only once. The reason I would make Laird my choice is his defense. Not only is he able to throw out runners at a high rate (40%), but he is great receiver. He could bring to the table all the things that were expected of Brian Schneider and actually hit a little better. I can live with his 2008 season if his defense is as good as advertised. Because of the presence of Henry Blanco he wouldn’t necessarily be expected to play more than 100 games.

Dioner Navarro – Could be a candidate to be non tendered, but that is only speculation at this point. He is at best league average offensively and inconsistent defensively. Do you think it’s any coincidence the Rays brought in Kelly Shoppach? What about the veteran defensive catchers like Michel Hernandez, Mike DiFelice, and Gregg Zaun that were brought in to caddy him. I was told not many pitchers enjoyed throwing to Mr. Navarro. Not good enough on either sides of the ball – I would pass.

Final Analysis

If Laird doesn’t cost too much in terms of prospects I would make him my #1 priority over Molina. Personally I wanted Shoppach, but that is water under the bridge at this point. Laird probably won’t hit a ton, but his arm and defense behind the plate is what I value. Unless you’re talking about an elite offensive catcher (Posada, Piazza, etc.) than I go for defense.

As for the reports about the Mets preference for game calling I say it’s about time. I personally am tired of fans, bloggers, and others media types discounting the importance of a catcher’s impact on the game. The Mets have extremely sensitive and inconsistent hurlers like Mike Pelfrey, John Maine, and Oliver Perez. They could use someone behind the plate that knows how to manage a ballgame. The fact that Johan Santana lobbied for Henry Blanco should be proof about its importance.

I appreciate the statistical breakdowns, but wish those that discount that part of the game pick up the phone and call someone in the game to educate themselves. I suggest talking to our good friend Brent Mayne over at the Art of Catching if you are at a loss where to turn. Defense, arm, and game calling are what I would put as utmost priority for any receiver. Does it mean he will turn bad pitching into good? No, but it certainly can take talented arms and help maximize their potential.

Tags: Bengie Molina, Catching Options, Detroit Tigers, Dioner Navarro, Gerald Laird, Henry Blanco, Johan Santana, John Maine, Kelly Shoppach, Mike Pelfrey, New York Mets, Oliver Perez, Pittsburgh Pirates, Ryan Doumit, San Francisco Giants, Tampa Bay Rays