Cleveland Indians have a full plate of catchers this year

The Cleveland Indians will have great depth behind the plate this year

Yan Gomes is fully recovered and healthy heading into spring training. Yan was sidelined early in the season after a collision at the plate with newly acquired outfielder Rajai Davis during an Indian Tigers game back in April 2015. Originally placed on the 15 day disabled list, the Tribe and their fans collectively held their breath hoping for the best. After an MRI, it was discovered that Gomez had suffered a sprain to his right MCL, and would be out 6-8 weeks.

The Indians turned to 26-year-old backup catcher Roberto Perez to fill in.

"“Losing Gomes, man, that can be a season killer.” Terry Francona said. “But Perez can handle this. He’s strong enough to catch every day”"

Perez played in 70 games last season due to Gomes’ injury. He seemed to quickly build trust and good rapport with the Cleveland Indians starters and bullpen, and his play behind the plate was solid. What was missing and lost with the Gomes injury was the run support. Perez only managed to hit .225 with 7 home runs and 21 runs batted in. A far cry from the .278 batting average, 21 home runs and 74 runs batted-in that Gomes supplied for the Tribe in 2014.

Wit Mike Napoli taking over the first base spot, that leaves Carlos Santana without a position. A possible DH spot? Sure, but Carlos wants playing time. Having been the Indians everyday catcher Gomes arrived in Cleveland from Toronto, it would only make sense to have him back up Gomes, supply Yan with a breather, and get the playing time he wants. In addition, the 34-year-old Napoli was an everyday catcher earlier in his career, and if found in a tight spot may be able to fill the role again. I guess would likely not given his history of injuries, including hamstring, calf and toe issues.

Next: Bench Will Be Big Factor For Tribe

So where does this leave Perez? Does the Tribe really need to carry 4 possible catchers? Would that extra roster spot be better used on a pitcher for the pen, maybe a utility role for Jose Ramirez?

Tito, will have many hard decisions to make during Spring Training, but good depth at any position is a great problem to have.