Episode 18: Get to Know Ryan Jeffers

Thanks for bringing us back to baseball, Seth.

Will try to listen later this morning. Will admit that I have been impressed with everything I have read about Jeffers this winter, especially the work he put in to become better defensively. Although I continue to believe that Rortvedt remains a top prospect, I now agree that Jeffers will probably join the Twins before Ben makes his debut.

Assuming there is a season, would not be surprised to see Jeffers making his debut later this summer/fall. Expect the Twins will have a nice problem a few years out by having three catchers whom all deserve regular playing time.  Sure as heck will be an improvement over some recent years when they arguably had none. 

I have watched Ryan Jeffers play catcher in Ft. Myers.   He is not a good defensive catcher.     He is a huge guy, so he is not mobile and he has some false steps in his throwing as well as accuracy issues.  Unless he has improved significantly since I have watched him catch with the Miracle, his upside is a slightly below average catcher in the major leagues.

That is perhaps good enough for him to remain a catcher in the major leagues because in the modern era the running game isn't as important, and if so this could be valuable for the Twins.   His bat should get him to that level and if he can play some catcher, between that position, first base,and DH he has a chance to be a strong contributor to the team.

I agree with Seth. Pitch framing, controlling the wild pitch, knowing your pitchers strengths and weaknesses vs the hitters strengths and weaknesses, and not having a rag arm. Now if we could just watch him play.