Red Sox: An overview of catching options for 2022 and beyond

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BOSTON, MA – JUNE 10: Christian Vazquez #7 of the Boston Red Sox throws to first base to begin a double play during the seventh inning of a game against the Houston Astros on June 10, 2021 at Fenway Park in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Billie Weiss/Boston Red Sox/Getty Images) /

The Boston Red Sox catching situation could change soon

After two great offensive campaigns in 2019 (.276/.320/.477, 23 home runs, 76 RBI, 103 OPS+) and 2020 (.283/.344/.457, 7 home runs, 23 RBI, 113 OPS+), 2021 has been largely disappointing for Boston Red Sox catcher Christian Vázquez.

Though Vázquez has caught the most games of anyone in Major League Baseball this year (101) and the most innings (820.2), he’s been unable to wake his bat up during a time when Boston needs it the most. In a second half where the Red Sox have floundered to a 15-19 record, Vázquez is hitting just .233 with 1 home run and 3 RBI. His overall struggles this year have lead to a disappointing .254/.304/.343 line, only 5 home runs, and a lowly 74 OPS+.

Vázquez’s drop in offensive production, as well as occasional questionable defensive efforts from the usually solid backstop, have lead some in Red Sox Nation wondering if he has a spot on the team next year.

With his $8 million team option hanging in the balance, the Red Sox have two good internal options to replace or supplement Vázquez with in 2022, and one option deeper in the system to keep tabs on down the road.

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