Spring training is all about getting pitchers ready for the big leagues, but what happens when you have 24 pitchers and not enough catchers to handle them? That’s the challenge the Cleveland Guardians are tackling head-on. With pitchers set to report to Goodyear, Arizona, on February 10, the team is ensuring they have a robust catching corps to manage the workload. On Wednesday, they took a significant step by re-signing veteran catcher Dom Nunez to a minor league deal, complete with an invitation to big-league camp. But here’s where it gets interesting: Nunez isn’t just another name on the roster—he’s a seasoned player with a history in Cleveland’s organization, having spent the last two seasons with the team.
The Guardians’ catching depth is already impressive, with Bo Naylor, Austin Hedges, and David Fry on the 40-man roster. Adding Nunez and non-roster invitee Cameron Barstad brings the total to five, but the team isn’t stopping there—more catchers are expected to join the fray. Is this overkill, or a strategic move to ensure every pitcher gets the attention they need?
Nunez, a left-handed hitter, has a notable background. Drafted by the Rockies in the sixth round of 2013, he appeared in two games with the Guardians last year, batting .286 (2 for 7). His Triple-A stats with Columbus were less impressive, hitting .176 (42 for 238) with nine home runs, 33 RBIs, and a .679 OPS. Yet, his experience—including parts of four seasons with the Rockies from 2019 to 2022—makes him a valuable asset for mentoring younger players.
The Guardians’ spring training invites don’t stop at catchers. So far, eight players have been invited on minor league deals, including pitchers Carlos Hernandez, Steven Perez, and Codi Heuer; infielder Dayan Frias; and outfielders Wuilfredo Antunez and Stuart Fairchild. But with so many players vying for spots, who will stand out and make the cut?
Pitchers, catchers, and injured players are set to report on February 10, with position players following on February 15. The mandatory reporting date is February 20, marking the official start of the Guardians’ journey toward the 2026 season.
And this is the part most people miss: spring training isn’t just about physical preparation—it’s about building chemistry and testing new talent. With Nunez back in the mix, the Guardians are not only addressing immediate needs but also investing in experience. Is this the right move, or are they overlooking younger, untapped potential? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this roster strategy is sure to spark debate among fans and analysts alike.
