Matt Wieters: Latest News, Rumors, Speculation on Free-Agent Catcher
Catcher Matt Wieters remains among the top players available in free agency, but his market appears to be heating up, as multiple teams are showing interest.
Continue for updates.
Nationals the Favorite to Land Wieters
Tuesday, Feb. 21
Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports, citing sources, reported Tuesday morning that the Washington Nationals were close to landing a deal with Wieters. The New York Post's Joel Sherman reported the same and added that the contract is expected to be for two years with an option.
Heyman first reported Dec. 29 that the Nationals were among Wieters' top suitors.
Brewers Reportedly Interested in Wieters
Friday, Jan. 27
Tommy Stokke of FanRag Sports reported the Milwaukee Brewers have taken an active interest in signing Wieters.
Braves Among Teams Vying for Wieters
Wednesday, Jan. 11
Heyman of FanRag Sports reported Dec. 29 that the Braves were interested in Wieters.
According to Heyman, Atlanta has long stood out as a landing spot for Wieters, but the Nats have jumped in to replace some of the production lost with the departures of catcher Wilson Ramos and infielder Danny Espinosa.
Heyman also named the Colorado Rockies, Arizona Diamondbacks and New York Mets as possible fits, although they may all be content with their current catching situations. On Wednesday, Heyman reported that the Los Angeles Angels are also considering Wieters.
Wieters a Reliable Veteran Option at Catcher
Wieters is coming off a 2016 season that saw him hit .243 with 17 home runs and 66 RBI for the Baltimore Orioles. He was also named to his fourth All-Star team in eight MLB seasons.
The 30-year-old veteran boasts considerable power for the position, posting three seasons of 20 or more home runs, and is also capable defensively with two Gold Gloves to his credit.
Staying healthy has been Wieters' biggest issue in recent years, as he appeared in just 101 games combined in the 2014 and 2015 seasons.
Wieters bounced back to play in 124 contests last season and is easily the best backstop still available.
It is understandable that teams would be cautious when it comes to offering Wieters a big contract in both money and length, considering his durability issues, but he is a solid, reliable presence behind the plate when healthy.
Strong all-around catchers are at a premium in Major League Baseball, and both the Braves and Nationals would receive a significant boost by signing him.
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