With the 2017 MLB season set to start in less than two weeks, let's take a look at who the best Catchers are in baseball right now. Hidden behind their masks and obscured behind home plate, the players who work this position don't always receive their due. Their pitch framing abilities and offensive prowess make them extremely important to their team's success, though, involved in the offense, defense, and pitching games.
4. Gary Sanchez, New York Yankees
Too soon to join the list of top catchers? Entering the 2017 MLB season, Sanchez has less than two months of major league experience.
He made that experience count, though, hitting 20 home runs and showcasing a strong throwing arm as well. He could develop into the biggest star in the Bronx since the retirement of Derek Jeter.
3. Yadier Molina, St. Louis Cardinals
Molina has been one of the best defensive catchers for what feels like a century. Yet he's still going strong, as evidenced by his stellar play during the World Baseball Classic. The 2017 MLB season this year, may finally be the end of his Hall of Fame run, but if it is, he's going to go out with a bang.
2. Jonathan Lucroy, Texas Rangers
This will be the first MLB season Lucroy spends entirely in Texas after coming over last season in a trade from the Milwaukee Brewers.
As far as catchers go, Lucroy is one of the best at throwing towards second base on a steal attempt, throwing out 40% of the attempted base stealers in recent history, well above league average. He also hit 24 home runs last season, a career high for him.
1. Buster Posey, San Francisco Giants
Posey still tops the list of best catchers in the MLB, but 2017 may be the end of his reign.
A season where he hit .288 with 14 home runs and 33 doubles was the worst offensive career he has ever had. His defense and ability to frame pitches proficiently help to mask his deficiencies of last year. Posey better watches out, though, because Gary Sanchez is set to make a major run at his positional title this season.
