Catchers Make Offensive Strides in 2024 MLB Season, Nearing League Average OPS

In the 2024 MLB season, catchers have significantly improved their offensive performance, achieving an average OPS (on-base plus slugging) of .691, which is close to the overall major league average of .697. This development marks a notable shift, as catchers have traditionally been known for their defensive skills rather than their batting prowess.

Leading this offensive surge are standout catchers such as Salvador Pérez of the Kansas City Royals, William Contreras of the Milwaukee Brewers, and Will Smith of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Pérez boasts an impressive OPS of .923, Contreras follows closely with .903, and Smith rounds out the top performers with an OPS of .876.

Several factors are contributing to this trend. One significant change is the increasing adoption of the one-knee squatting stance, which is believed to reduce the physical toll on catchers' legs. Cleveland Guardians manager Stephen Vogt, a former catcher himself, commented on this development, noting, 'They're going to be able to play more. They're going to be able to play a lot longer. They're not going to take the pounding and the wear and tear in their knees and hips and back like a lot of the traditional catchers did.'

The introduction of the designated hitter (DH) in the National League in 2022 has also played a significant role in this improvement. The DH allows catchers to stay in the lineup even when they aren't behind the plate, giving them more opportunities to rest and focus on their hitting. William Contreras, whose .323 batting average ranks fifth in the NL, credits his occasional DH assignments with helping him maintain a rhythm at the plate.

Fox analyst and former catcher A.J. Pierzynski emphasized the benefits of the DH rule, saying, 'Let's say you're Adley Rutschman. You're thinking, 'How are we going to get Aaron Judge out today?' Guess what? I don't have to worry about it because I'm a DH. All I've got to do is worry about is how I'm going to get a hit and drive in some runs for these guys.'

Other notable catchers contributing to this trend include Adley Rutschman of the Baltimore Orioles with an OPS of .815, J.T. Realmuto of the Philadelphia Phillies with .781, and Elias Díaz of the Colorado Rockies with .774. These performances highlight the growing offensive capabilities of catchers across the league.

The 2024 MLB season will be fascinating to watch, with catchers' improved offensive performance under scrutiny. With strategic adjustments and the benefits of the DH rule, catchers are set to continue making a significant impact at the plate.

Key Takeaways

• Catchers' average OPS in 2024 MLB season is .691, close to the overall league average.
• Standout catchers include Salvador Pérez, William Contreras, and Will Smith with high OPS.
• One-knee squatting stance reduces physical toll on catchers, allowing them to play more.
• Designated Hitter (DH) rule in National League helps catchers rest and focus on hitting.
• Catchers' improved offense is a trend to watch in the 2024 MLB season.