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Detroit Tigers Spring Training Preview: Breaking Down Reserve Catching Options

By Ben Rosener

Aug 21, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers catcher Alex Avila (13) makes a throw to first in the third inning against the Texas Rangers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 21, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers catcher Alex Avila (13) makes a throw to first in the third inning against the Texas Rangers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 28, 2015; Lakeland, FL, USA; Detroit Tigers catcher Grayson Greiner (72) poses during Photo day at Joker Merchant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /

Grayson Greiner
Age: 24
Hits: Right-Handed
Major League Experience: None

Greiner, who recently ranked 22nd on Motor City Bengals’ list of the top Detroit Tigers players, could have conceivably been the franchise’s third catcher this year.

Had Avila not signed with Detroit, Hicks would have probably been the leading candidate to take over as James McCann’s top backup.

The prospect split the season between Advanced-A Lakeland, Double-A Erie and Triple-A Toledo. He made his Mud Hens debut late in the season, seeing time in just one game.

However, he’s likely the next in line after Hicks if the Tigers are in need of a catcher.

Over the span of 91 contests last season, the backstop hit .293 with a .424 slugging percentage.

He also added 43 RBI, 34 runs scored, 15 doubles, seven home runs, three triples and a stolen bases.

The former third-round pick threw out 33% of base runners last season, including nabbing 44% of would-be base stealers at the Double-A level.

Miguel Gonzalez
Age: 26
Hits: Right-Handed
Major League Experience: Five Games

A minor league veteran with five years of experience at Triple-A, Gonzalez has been serving as a depth option for Detroit dating back to the 2015 season.

In 60 games last season, the 26-year-old threw out 40% of base stealers for Lloyd McClendon’s team in Toledo.

Gonzalez also contributed a 78 wRC+ while tallying a career-high 33 RBI.

Next: Plenty of Competition on the Bench

The former Chicago White Sox player also added 17 runs scored, 12 doubles and a pair of home runs. He batted .243 with an OPS that came in at .625.

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