Jonathan Mayo has shocked the world and proclaimed Travis d’Arnaud the top catching prospect in the major leagues. Actually, I’m just punning with him as d’Arnaud has held that distinction for almost three straight years.
Here is what Mayo had to say:
If it hadn’t been for some injuries, talk about d’Arnaud as a prospect would have long been a thing of the past and the buzz would be about him as one of the bright young catching stars in the big leagues.
In 2012, he was tearing up the Pacific Coast League when he tore the PCL in his left knee. During the offseason, he was traded for an ace for the second time in his career. Initially a Phillies prospect, he was dealt to Toronto in the Roy Halladay deal. This time, he was the key part of a package sent from the Blue Jays to the Mets for R.A. Dickey.
When healthy, he has the tools to be a top-flight all-around backstop. He’s agile and athletic with a good arm and has worked hard to improve his throwing. He has the ability to hit for both average and power and is a natural leader behind the plate, skills he should be able to show off in New York soon.
D’Arnaud edged out Seattle’s Mike Zunino.
In 67 games with Triple-A Las Vegas last season, d’Arnaud hit .333 with a .380 OBP, .975 OPS, 16 home runs and 52 RBI in 279 at-bats.
