Was participating in WBC the best decision for Yankees catcher?

Over the last two weeks, most of baseball fans' attention has been focused on the World Baseball Classic, and for good reason. Some of the sport’s best players have gifted audiences a tournament filled with excitement, huge moments and big games. It’s hard to say it’s been a bad experience for anyone involved. 

That’s might even be the case for New York Yankees' catcher Kyle Higashioka, despite the limited playing time he’s seen in that stretch. 

Of course, few expected that he’d be seeing a lot of action. Higashioka is on the USA roster as the clear third catcher option. Philadelphia’s J.T. Realmuto is arguably the best catcher in baseball, and Los Angeles’ Will Smith is not terribly far behind. Both are superior options in a tournament like this.  

Higashioka is there for his defense and as a “just in case” measure, should someone get hurt. 

That’s how he’s been used, too. Higashioka saw action in three games: the U.S.’s 11-5 loss to Mexico and 12-1 victory over Canada in pool play, followed by the 14-2 semifinal win over Cuba.  

While it’s certain Higashioka has gotten valuable experience simply by being a part of Team USA and taking part in the WBC—just look at how the entire roster responded to hitting coach Ken Griffey Jr. taking batting practice—it’s hard not to wonder if his participation was the best thing for the Yankees. Higashioka hasn’t taken a live at-bat in a game in two weeks. There is only a week to go before Opening Day is here. 

Higashioka is used to being a part-time player. He doesn’t hit enough to justify more regular action, with a career .200/.245/.386 slash line, but he has earned the trust of Yankees pitchers, particularly Gerrit Cole. Perhaps the extended break won’t impact him to start the season; It’s hard to say until he gets into consistent game action. 

Jose Trevino will be behind the plate in most games for New York, and Higashioka will get a good chunk of playing time. His place on the roster is secure, at least due in part to him being out of options.

However, spring training has not been kind to the Yankees catching depth beyond the pair. Ben Rortvedt will be out for some time following shoulder surgery, and non-roster invitee Josh Breaux and prospect Austin Wells have also been hit by the injury bug.