The Tigers also believe McCann can reach Avila's defensive skill levels -- in time. Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
DETROIT — The ceiling is high for James McCann, and so is the floor.
A lot is being asked of the Detroit Tigers’ rookie catcher as he assumes the role of regular behind the plate in the absence of injured regular Alex Avila, who learned Wednesday that surgery on his bad left knee will not be necessary at this time.
McCann is seen in some quarters as Detroit’s catcher of the future, and his performance during his time as Avila’s stand-in is seen as an audition.
Avila is eligible for free agency at the end of the season, and some scenarios have Detroit allowing him to leave — especially if McCann measures up.
Cost could be a factor. So could his performance at the plate. But the fact Avila’s dad, Al, is assistant to Detroit general manager Dave Dombrowski will not be a factor at all.
Catcher is not usually a position where a rookie is employed on a team expecting to make a deep run in the postseason.
The great secret strength of Avila is his game-calling ability. He understands the strengths and weakness of his pitchers, is excellent at making quick in-game corrections to game plans and is outstanding at formulating ways to get enemy hitters out.
Avila provides above-the-norm defense, and he excels at throwing runners out.
Avila doesn’t hit much for average, but he can drive in runs, and his on-base skills are excellent.
“McCann gives us good at-bats,” manager Brad Ausmus said Wednesday. “He battles. I wasn’t worried about his at-bats.”
The rookie went 0-for-4 Wednesday night in Detroit’s 6-2 loss to the Minnesota Twins, dropping his average to .250.
McCann has a smooth, short stroke and some size. The Tigers feel he will hit some home runs and have gap power. They also believe McCann can reach Avila’s defensive skill levels — in time.
Right now the rookie does not frame pitches as well as Avila, a subtlety overlooked in its importance. The arm is there, though, and his blocking ability is quite good.
One skill acquisition that cannot be rushed, though, is the young catcher’s ability to call a game, to mesh with his pitchers. Only time will take care of that.
Even though McCann was with Detroit through spring training (plus September of last year), there are worlds of difference between catching a pitcher in the spring and working with him when the games count in the standings.
Pitchers have habits. Some need to be pushed; others left alone. What they like to throw in certain situations can only be learned through experience.
Good catchers know what pitches to call before the pitcher does, even the temperamental ones. When you watch a game and the pitcher never shakes off the catcher, or there are no trips to the mound, you know something good is going on.
