If Telis is the backup catcher, he's not an impact bat off the bench because you dont use your backup catcher as a pinch hitter unless absolutely necessary. He'd play once a week, just like Mathis.
Also, while I like Telis, his ceiling is pretty much universally considered backup catcher. It'll be interesting to see if he sustains his improved walk rate (he has 11 already, walked 19 times all of last year). There's not much pop in his bat, he's probably a sub .100 iso guy in the bigs. Before this season he looked like a guy who would hit an empty .275 every year, like a Hechavarria 14/15 slash line. We'll see if the walks maintain.
He's only 24, so it's entirely possible he's just improved. And the fact he's only 24 is another reason I don't get what the rush is. Mathis is fine as a once a week backup, a mentor to young pitchers and Realmuto. If JT gets hurt, Telis will be the starter. I'd like to see Mathis transition into a role in the coaching staff next season, but I imagine he'll still want to play.
Also, while I like Telis, his ceiling is pretty much universally considered backup catcher. It'll be interesting to see if he sustains his improved walk rate (he has 11 already, walked 19 times all of last year). There's not much pop in his bat, he's probably a sub .100 iso guy in the bigs. Before this season he looked like a guy who would hit an empty .275 every year, like a Hechavarria 14/15 slash line. We'll see if the walks maintain.
He's only 24, so it's entirely possible he's just improved. And the fact he's only 24 is another reason I don't get what the rush is. Mathis is fine as a once a week backup, a mentor to young pitchers and Realmuto. If JT gets hurt, Telis will be the starter. I'd like to see Mathis transition into a role in the coaching staff next season, but I imagine he'll still want to play.
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