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Houston Astros: Will The Catching Duo Of Brian McCann And Evan Gattis Work?

By James Zeankowski

Oct 4, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves left fielder Evan Gattis (24) celebrates with teammates after scoring against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the second inning of game two of the National League divisional series playoff baseball game at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 4, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves left fielder Evan Gattis (24) celebrates with teammates after scoring against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the second inning of game two of the National League divisional series playoff baseball game at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jul 5, 2015; Boston, MA, USA; Houston Astros designated hitter Evan Gattis (11) celebrates his home run with second baseman Jose Altuve (27) during the seventh inning against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Evan Gattis has youth, elite power and controllable years on his side.

Don’t let the physical age of El Oso Blanco fool you. He may be 30 on his birth certificate, but he plays like he’s still in his early 20’s.

Many, including myself, would argue that he is like fine wine or cheese and has gotten, and will continue to get, a lot better with age. That too is, of course, just another outdated mindset. Just talk to the bear personally, like I have before, and you’ll understand why.

Despite still working out the kinks with his on-base numbers, Evan Gattis has some of the most elite power in the league today. Posting an ISO of .257 last season, and a .234 ISO across his 4 year career also put the Big White Bear among the top power hitters off all time.

Even further good news for the Houston Astros is that he still has 2 seasons until he becomes a free agent. And given that he has stated in many interviews before about how he wants to stay in Houston, he may just be available as a free agent in 2019. Of course then, he will deservedly ask for a multi-year extension.

Depending on how quick or slow it takes for either Jake Rodgers or Garret Stubbs to develop down in the minor league system, this may be an option the organization will want to look into when the time comes. I mean, it’s not everyday you can have a slugging 30+ HR catcher come at a $5.2 million price tag.

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