Introduction

As the dust settles on the 2023 Major League Baseball (MLB) season, it’s time to celebrate the unsung heroes behind the plate the catchers. These guardians of the diamond play a pivotal role in every game, handling pitchers, thwarting base stealers, and contributing offensively.

Best Catchers in MLB 2023

1. Adley Rutschman (Baltimore Orioles)

Adley Stan Rutschman, the talented catcher for the Baltimore Orioles, emerged as a baseball prodigy from Sherwood High School in Oregon. Adley Rutschman, a rising star, dominated the 2023 season. His 5.3 fWAR speaks volumes about his impact. With a keen eye at the plate and a cannon for an arm, Rutschman is the complete package.

His college dominance at Oregon State University included impressive batting averages and clutch performances. The Orioles recognized his potential, selecting him as the first overall pick in the 2019 MLB draft. Since his MLB debut in 2022, Rutschman has contributed significantly with a .268 batting average, 33 home runs, 122 RBIs, and 154 runs scored. His accolades include All-Star recognition and the Silver Slugger Award .

2. J.T. Realmuto (Philadelphia Phillies)

J.T. Realmuto, the American professional baseball catcher for the Philadelphia Phillies, has left an indelible mark on the MLB. Born in Del City, Oklahoma, into an athletic family, Realmuto’s journey from high school shortstop to full-time catcher is remarkable. Realmuto’s 6.5 fWAR showcases his prowess. His offensive production and defensive wizardry make him a perennial favorite. His .276 batting average, 22 home runs, and 84 RBIs are nothing short of impressive.

His strength, speed, and versatility have earned him three All-Star appearances, two Gold Glove Awards, and three Silver Slugger Awards. In 2021, he signed a record-breaking five-year, $115.5 million contract with the Phillies, solidifying his place as one of the game’s premier catchers

3. Will Smith (Los Angeles Dodgers)

Smith’s 3.9 fWAR solidifies his spot. His consistency behind the plate and timely hitting make him a valuable asset. Plus, he’s got the swagger of a Hollywood star.

Will Smith, the talented catcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers in Major League Baseball (MLB), was born on March 28, 1995, in Louisville, Kentucky, U.S. He made his MLB debut with the Dodgers on May 28, 2019. As a right-handed batter and thrower, Smith has achieved notable career highlights, including being named an All-Star in 2023 and winning the World Series in 2020.

4. Sean Murphy (Atlanta Braves)

Murphy’s 5.1 fWAR is a testament to his all-around skills. His defensive acumen and clutch hitting make him a fan favorite. Expect big things from this young gun.

Sean Michael Murphy, born on October 4, 1994, is an American professional baseball catcher for the Atlanta Braves in Major League Baseball (MLB). He was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in the third round of the 2016 MLB draft. Murphy made his MLB debut in 2019 with the Athletics and won a Gold Glove Award in 2021. In 2023, his first year with Atlanta, he made his first All-Star Game.

5. Willson Contreras (St. Louis Cardinals)

Contreras, with a 3.3 fWAR, brings energy to the field. His fiery personality and ability to handle pitchers make him indispensable. Plus, he’s got a cannon arm.

Willson Eduardo Contreras, born on May 13, 1992, is a Venezuelan professional baseball catcher currently playing for the St. Louis Cardinals in Major League Baseball (MLB). Prior to joining the Cardinals, Contreras made a significant impact with the Chicago Cubs. His MLB debut occurred in 2016, and he was a crucial part of the 2016 World Series champions.

6. Alejandro Kirk (Toronto Blue Jays)

Kirk’s 3.8 fWAR defies his age. His bat-to-ball skills and pitch framing are remarkable. Keep an eye on this rising star. Alejandro Kirk, born on November 6, 1998, hails from Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico. He is a Mexican professional baseball catcher currently playing for the Toronto Blue Jays in Major League Baseball (MLB).

Discovered by Blue Jays scout Dean Decillis at a showcase held by the Toros de Tijuana of the Mexican League, Kirk signed with the team in 2016. His professional journey began in the minor leagues, where he showcased impressive skills. In his MLB debut on September 12, 2020, he wasted no time, recording his first hit and eventually becoming the first catcher aged 21 or younger to achieve a four-hit game since Joe Mauer in 2004.

7. Cal Raleigh (Seattle Mariners)

Cal Raleigh, born on November 26, 1996, is an American professional baseball catcher for the Seattle Mariners in Major League Baseball (MLB). He made his MLB debut in 2021. Known by the nickname “Big Dumper”, Raleigh has an impressive track record.

His journey began at Smoky Mountain High School in Sylva, North Carolina. Later, he played college baseball for the Florida State Seminoles, where he showcased his talent. In his junior year at FSU, Raleigh posted an impressive slash line of .326/.447/.583 with 13 home runs and 54 RBIs over 62 games . His performance caught the attention of the Seattle Mariners, who drafted him in the third round of the 2018 MLB draft

8. Tyler Stephenson (Cincinnati Reds)

Tyler Robert Stephenson, born on August 16, 1996, is an American professional baseball catcher for the Cincinnati Reds in Major League Baseball (MLB) . The Reds selected him in the first round, 11th overall, during the 2015 MLB Draft.

Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, Stephenson honed his skills at Kennesaw Mountain High School, where he began calling pitches during his freshman year, preparing for the game-calling responsibilities of professional catchers. His offensive prowess was evident during his senior year, boasting a .415 batting average, eight home runs, and 25 RBIs

9. Danny Jansen (Toronto Blue Jays)

Danny Jansen, born on April 15, 1995, is an American professional baseball catcher for the Toronto Blue Jays in Major League Baseball (MLB). He was drafted by the Blue Jays in the 16th round of the 2013 MLB Draft.

Jansen’s journey began at Appleton West High School in Appleton, Wisconsin, where he honed his skills as a catcher. His offensive prowess was evident during his senior year, boasting a .415 batting average, eight home runs, and 25 RBIs.

10. Jonah Heim (Texas Rangers)

Heim’s 2.6 fWAR deserves recognition. His versatility and clutch hitting make him an asset. The Rangers have a gem in Heim.

Jonah Nathan Heim, born on June 27, 1995, is an American professional baseball catcher for the Texas Rangers in Major League Baseball (MLB). Heim’s baseball journey began in Buffalo, New York, where he attended Amherst Central High School. Despite the cold weather limiting his outdoor playtime, Heim’s switch hitting skills and defensive abilities caught the attention of scouts and recruiters.

The Baltimore Orioles drafted him in the fourth round of the 2013 MLB Draft, and he spent several years developing his offensive game in the Orioles’ farm system. Heim was later traded to the Tampa Bay Rays and then to the Oakland Athletics, where he made his MLB debut in 2020 

Rookie Catchers to Watch

While we celebrate the established stars, let’s not forget the rookies who made their mark in 2023:

1. Austin Wells (New York Yankees): Keep an eye on this young Yankee.
2. Blake Sabol (San Francisco Giants): A promising talent on the West Coast.
3. Brett Sullivan (San Diego Padres): His bat is electric.
4. César Salazar (Houston Astros): A defensive stalwart.
5. David Fry (Cleveland Guardians): A surprise package.
6. Drew Millas (Washington Nationals): A rising star.
7. Endy Rodríguez (Pittsburgh Pirates): A name to remember.
8. Logan Porter (Kansas City Royals): Building a bright future.

Conclusion

Remember, these catchers are the heartbeat of their teams, and their contributions extend beyond the box score. So, next time you watch a game, tip your cap to the masked warriors behind the plate they’re the glue that holds it all together. In summary, the 2023 MLB season witnessed a blend of experience and emerging talent behind the plate. These catchers elevated their teams and left an indelible mark on the game.