Jeff Mathis appeared in just three games for the Braves in 2021 but presumably made big contributions off the field. The Atlanta Braves had to go to great lengths to cover the catcher position during the 2021 season, and Jeff Mathis was another veteran backstop that made a cameo appearance.
There are now just two weeks remaining in the 2021 regular season, and while the immediate focus is on the playoff races, a potentially eventful offseason is waiting just over the horizon.
Mathis had the right to refuse a minor league assignment. However, he has decided to accept a spot on the Atlanta taxi squad and will remain in the organization as non-roster depth.
In a corresponding move, Atlanta designated veteran backstop Jeff Mathis for assignment.
In addition, d'Arnaud's original replacement, Alex Jackson, has also been placed on the injured list.
Braves catcher Travis d’Arnaud is headed to the injured list after suffering a left thumb injury in Saturday night’s game with the Blue Jays, manager Brian Snitker told reporters (including David O’Brien of The Athletic).
It looks like the Braves have added another “former player coach” after they signed Jeff Mathis to a deal; this time it’s former Blue Jays infielder Devon Travis.
Never known for his hitting, Mathis has carved out a niche for himself as one of the sport’s best defensive catchers.
Mathis, 38 next week, went 6-for-29 with a homer and a pair of doubles with the Phillies this spring.
There’s no guarantee that Mathis will be back with the Rangers or any other club next season. He hasn’t hit better than .200 in a season since 2017, and his perennially high strikeout rate has spiked.
Set to miss the playoffs for the third straight year, the Rangers should try to improve their catcher situation over the winter.
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