Phillies Position Battle: Ryan Hanigan Wins Backup Catcher Job?

Competition in Phillies camp for the catching job is as bare as can be

Early reports coming out of Phillies Spring Training in Clearwater were that prospect Andrew Knapp was the odds-on favorite to win the major league backup catcher job. A lack of offensive production in 11 games has left Knapp on the outside looking in, and a non-roster invitee claiming potentially the job.

Ryan Hanigan has been one of the biggest surprises for the Phillies this year, and has a batting average nearly .400 points higher than Knapp.

Knapp’s two hits all spring and the fluctuation of positions proves he belongs in Lehigh Valley next season. Where he plays with Rhys Hoskins and Jorge Alfaro expected to graduate to Triple-A presents an unusual predicament in a Phillies organization recently grasping for talent.

Hanigan brings the Phils a great package of attributes to work with. He’s a veteran with 10 years of major league experience, a history of success at the plate, and the potential to bring back young talent via trade.

At this point of spring training there are few secondary options at catcher other than Knapp or Hanigan. Logan Moore and Bryan Holaday, the two other veterans acquired to compete in camp, have each hit .200 or worse and will most likely not remain in the organization.

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Unless another worthy candidate emerges during roster cuts, or a free agent such as Derek Norris comes into play, expect the battery to be Cameron Rupp and Hanigan on opening day in Cincinnati.