LA Angels 2021 spring training guide: assessing the catcher competition

I think I can speak for all fans in saying Wednesday cannot get here soon enough. That day marks the first team workout for Angels pitchers and catchers to begin spring training.

Among the Halos active catchers are Max Stassi, Kurt Suzuki, and Anthony Bemboom. In addition, the Angels have invited five non-roster invitees at the catcher position.

There’s a possibility the Halos will go with three catchers on the active roster at different points during the season. Joe Maddon has used this formula many times in his managerial career. In 2016, Maddon rode a rotation of Miguel Montero, David Ross, and Willson Contreras to a World Series title.

Given the uncertain health status of Max Stassi, the Angels will have a competition for the backup catcher position during spring training.

Having a reliable backup catcher to handle the pitching staff and occasionally get a big hit goes a long way in contending for a championship.

If everyone’s healthy, I think we can expect some platoon of Stassi and Suzuki for the majority of the season. There’s uncertainty whether or not Stassi will begin the season on the Injured List following hip surgery.

It might not make headlines, but Stassi’s injury will make for some serious competition among the backup catcher candidates.