Finding good catching isn't the easiest thing to do. Growing your own seems to be an even harder task. Some can hit, but either can't handle the defensive rigors of the position or get moved to keep that offensive production from wearing down. Others are stalwarts with the glove, but don't hit enough to profile as everyday players. But as the 2011 season looms ahead, the prospect landscape is pretty catching-rich. There are a number of future big league backstops to get excited about. Here are the Top 10:
1. Jesus Montero, Yankees: There's been little doubt about the bat, even though he got off to a very rough start to his 2010 season, his first taste of Triple-A. But after stumbling out of the gate, Montero hit .351/.396/.684 in the second half, putting him back on the short list of top hitting prospects in the game. The question, however, has been more about his defense than his bat. Can Montero be an everyday catcher? Do the Yankees want him to be? While he's worked hard on that part of the game, it remains to be seen if it's enough to stay at the position and become an offensive-minded backstop. He'll have the opportunity to hit his way onto the Bombers' Opening Day roster this spring.
2. Wil Myers, Royals: Myers is another who fits into the "great bat, but can he catch?" group. There's no doubt he can hit, after a .324/.429/.533 line over 637 career plate appearances. He's got great plate discipline and should hit for plenty of power. He's even got decent speed. Having played a number of positions in high school, he's still learning how to catch, but there are those who feel he won't be able to stay behind the plate. He is athletic enough with plenty of arm strength to handle a move to the outfield should the Royals decide to go that route.
