News

#Tomas Nido, James McCann will split Mets’ catching duties

“#Tomas Nido, James McCann will split Mets’ catching duties”

PHOENIX — Luis Rojas isn’t divulging the specifics, but the Mets will continue with a job share behind the plate until further notice.

The manager started Tomas Nido at catcher on Tuesday, placing James McCann on the bench against the Diamondbacks. McCann had been bouncing between catcher and first base during Pete Alonso’s injured-list stint, but with Alonso back in the lineup the decisions have become difficult.

McCann had a breakout game offensively against the Braves on Saturday, when he went 4-for-5 with a homer.

“It’s tough,” Rojas said. “Both are doing well, they are catching well, Mac called a really good game [Monday]. He is swinging the bat really good, too.

“Nido has swung the bat well, he’s caught well also. We are sharing time right now.”

Nido posted an .872 OPS in May and ranks in the 94th percentile in MLB among pitch framers, according to Baseball Savant.

The Mets are planning to retire Jerry Koosman’s No. 36 during an August ceremony, according to a club source.

Further details are expected to be announced within the next few days. Koosman’s number was supposed to be retired last year, but the ceremony was wiped out by the pandemic. Koosman will join Tom Seaver (41) and Mike Piazza (31) among Mets players with their numbers retired. Former managers Casey Stengel (37) and Gil Hodges (14) also have their numbers retired.

Infielder Travis Blankenhorn was claimed off waivers from the Mariners and added to the 26-man roster. He was available off the bench against the Diamondbacks. Wilfredo Tovar was designated for assignment to clear space. Blankenhorn began the season with the Twins, for whom he had four plate appearances in 2020.

<br />

Brandon Nimmo is still receiving treatment on the “muscle area” in his left index finger, according to Rojas, and it’s unclear when he might resume swinging the bat.

“He has attempted, but he’s just felt a little soreness,” Rojas said. “We just want that to go away until he starts swinging, but we have attempted it.”

Nimmo has been on the injured list since May 3.

If you liked the article, do not forget to share it with your friends. Follow us on Google News too, click on the star and choose us from your favorites.