Chicago Cubs: Potential backup catchers for 2018

Taylor Davis

Taylor Davis is another prospect in the Cubs’ system that could be ready for the majors in 2018. Davis, who is 28 years old, has had a lengthy minor league career, spanning seven seasons.

Most recently, in 2015, Davis slashed .311/.361/.483 with nine home runs and 43 RBI in 104 games between Double- and Triple-A. Following what was perhaps his best season to date, Davis took a step back in 2016. Over 296 at-bats (88 games), Davis slashed .264/.347/.351 with just two home runs and 30 RBI.

With more than 100 Triple-A games under his belt, Davis entered the 2017 season looking to finally break through and reach the majors. All it would take for the then 27-year-old to reach the big leagues was another 102 games in Iowa. In those games, Davis slashed .297/.357/.429 with six home runs and a career-best 62 RBI.

On Sept. 8, 2017, Davis made his major league debut. After going hitless in just one at-bat in his first game, Davis struggled to find success. In just 13 at-bats, Davis hit .231 with one double and one RBI.

Defensive ability

Davis, just like the younger Caratini, can play behind the dish and both corner infield spots. In 803 innings at first base, Davis has committed just four errors and has a better fielding percentage there (.995) than at the catcher’s position (.992).

Despite that, Davis has thrown out 25% of baserunners, a pretty solid number. In addition to that, Davis has a better range factor per nine and per game than Caratini does.

Overall, both Davis and Caratini have a similar ability with Caratini holding the advantage in the age department.