Washington Nationals: 5 potential catching candidates

Alex Avila

Although he is not as flashy as Realmuto, Alex Avila may be a more logical option for the Nats. The 30-year-old backstop spent 2017 with the Detroit Tigers and Chicago Cubs, and put together a fairly productive season. In 112 total games, Avila owned a .264/.387/.447 slash line to go with 14 homers.

If Avila were to sign with the Nats, he could dethrone Wieters as the starting catcher or serve as his platoon partner. He has played both roles throughout his career, so he would have experience as either.

Avila also brings a team-first attitude, which would please manager Dave Martinez, who also coached Avila with the Cubs. Earlier this off-season, Avila said that he does not care what role he serves, and his main focus is to join a winning team.

The Nats may not be able to offer a starting job, which could scare some catching candidates off, but they can certainly offer an opportunity to win. Because of this, Avila is a perfect fit.

In addition to his bond with Martinez, Avila has several other ties to the Nats. He was Max Scherzer‘s catcher in Detroit, when Scherzer had some of the best seasons of his career. Avila is also a native of Hialeah, Florida, so he is friends with Gio Gonzalez.

Between Avila’s ties to the Nats’ manager and two starting pitchers, he would be right at home in DC. He is not the big name that fans are hoping for, but he may be the Nats’ best option.