Alex Cora Explains Why Red Sox Are Carrying Three Catchers

When the Boston Red Sox activated Ali Sanchez on Monday, many expected the corresponding move to involve a catcher. Instead, the Red Sox optioned David Hamilton to Triple-A Worcester and elected to keep both Carlos Narvaez and Connor Wong.

Carlos Narvaez has been dealing with knee soreness, but started Monday’s game at catcher for the first time in almost a week. Connor Wong had been handling the catching duties in Narvaez’s absence.

Most teams only carry two catchers, but the Red Sox now have three with Sanchez. Alex Cora explained the rationale behind the extra catcher.

“Taking care of Narvy is important, understanding where he’s at physically,” Cora said. “It makes sense. We’ll see how it goes… He’s playing, but let’s see how he reacts to it, and we’ll go from there.”

Narvaez is a rookie and has caught more innings than in any other season in his professional career. While rhythm is important, getting Narvaez off his feet might help him offensively. Since the beginning of July, he’s hitting .167 with two home runs.

Sanchez doesn’t have much major league experience, but he said he’s willing to play wherever they need him.

David Hamilton’s speed and defense allowed Cora to make late-game substitutions freely. Cora said Wong will take ground balls at first and second base to allow the Red Sox to continue to be aggressive with substitutions late in games.