One San Diego Padres player that has impressed manager Mike Shildt in Spring Training this year is catcher Luis Campusano.
The 25-year-old finally earned the starting catcher role for the Padres this year. Campusano, who made his MLB debut in 2020, has seen his time in the majors limited due to injuries, including in 2023.
Now healthy, Shildt has seen Campusano take advantage with his preparation through camp. In particular, Shildt complimented how much Campusano has grown with his "intentional" approach to training and getting ready for his new role.
"Clearly a demanding position with catching. He's got a good sense for the game, studies the game. This guy is really intentional, wants to be great in every aspect of the game. He's really taken advantage of the experience he's gotten. He's been really mindful of picking other people's brains about how he can best continue to grow and use other people's experience, which I think is a real sign of maturity."
In addition, Campusano has been widely complimented from his teammates about his improved game-calling and abilities behind the plate.
Shildt noted that Campusano also does a good job at getting his at-bats in during practice. This shows in game action, too.
Through Spring Training, Campusano has seen 28 at-bats and recorded seven hits, five runs, four RBIs and one home run.
Overall, it appears that Campusano is finally getting the opportunity he's waited for and is making the most of it. If he keeps this up in the regular season, he'll live up to the label as a former top prospect.
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