The Milwaukee Brewers know that William Contreras is their primary catcher entering the 2024 season. What they do not know is if both Gary Sanchez and Eric Haase will make the Opening Day roster. Here we take a further look at the situation.
Eric Haase was signed by the Milwaukee Brewers first to back up William Contreras
With Victor Caratini departing in free agency the Brewers initially signed Eric Haase to a major league contract. This deal was done shortly before Christmas and at that time the thought was that the 31 year old would backup William Contreras. Milwaukee signed him knowing that he was out of minor league options and guaranteed him $1.0 million for the one year deal.
Later on Gary Sanchez was signed by the Milwaukee Brewers.
In early February the Brewers reportedly had a deal in place with Gary Sanchez. Their initial agreement hit a minor cross roads after there was concern regarding his previously fractured wrist during his physical. Two weeks later Milwaukee officially signed him for a lower guaranteed and base salary but with the ability to still earn the full $7.0 million should he reach agreed upon incentives.
During Spring Training Eric Haase has been pleading his case for an Opening Day roster spot.
Spring Training stats are meaningful for players who are competing for roster spots. Eric Haase is one of those players and so far he has hit four home runs during Cactus League play. He additionally has 12 hits, a .414 batting average, and a 1.366 OPS.
Between Haases’ offensive outburst and Sanchez’s struggles behind home plate (numerous past balls) it’s hard to imagine Haase not making the Opening Day roster. Teams do not typically carry three catchers, but a rotation at catcher and designated hitter could be in line in order to keep them all fresh and their bats in the lineup.
Looking ahead the biggest looming question, outside of William Contreras, is if the defense of Haase and Sanchez will suffice. Haase has never been viewed as a strong defender and as noted Sanchez has not impressed defensively so far.
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