@Jack Parkman is the truth. Stood by Gio through thick and thin last year and the guy has turned into a bona fide stud this year. Wow, well done Jack. I gave you props during Gio’s first outing because you could see he was a different pitcher then and he’s maintained it now through the first 1/4 of the season.
Coming into the season, most would have been happy if he established himself as a #5. If they can stay healthy, Cease, Kopech, Giolito, Lopez, FA, should be the second best rotation in the division next year and the Sox lineup is already far better than the Indians.
What do I think of his defense? Compare pitchers’ ERA with him at catcher versus Castillo this year or Narvaez/Smith/Castillo last year. The numbers speak for themselves.
When he was signed, most here said he was average to below average defensively. He’s been the most impressive catcher defensively in MLB that I’ve seen all season. Even if he hits for a 650 OPS, his defense is invaluable. And what do you know, another game where he starts at catcher and another quality start from the starting pitcher with the team in position for a win. It’s no longer a coincidence.
Not “great” but by all accounts a 125 wRC+ is certainly “good.” Keep in mind he turns 24 this month. I’d be thrilled with a 125 wRC+ 3b that just turned 24 if he maintains it for the entire season.
Even if McCann regresses significantly offensively, he’s a breath of fresh air defensively compared to the likes of Castillo, Narvaez, Smith, etc. That’s huge for the young staff the Sox are trying to develop.
White Sox are 12-7 when McCann starts at catcher this season. SSS but that’s starting to become a real thing. Pitchers’ numbers are considerably better with him and he did a hell of a job tonight blocking some really tough pitches in the dirt with men on second and third base.