We have 32 days until Opening Day, when the Giants host the Yankees in San Francisco. As part of the countdown, we’re taking a look at the top 10 players at each position. This will be a running series that covers every position leading up to Opening Night at Oracle Park.
First up, catchers. Some would argue it’s the most important position on the field, with responsibilities that impact both the pitching staff and the entire defense.
1. Cal Raleigh, Seattle Mariners
Of course, Raleigh had to be at the top. The Big Dumper hit 60 home runs last season, setting a record for both catchers and switch hitters. But he’s not just a top-tier hitter. He’s also a brick wall behind the plate. He didn’t allow a passed ball all season until the playoffs. He may not replicate that 2025 campaign, but he should remain one of the league’s premier catchers for years to come.
2. Will Smith, Los Angeles Dodgers
Smith is entering the third year of his 10-year contract extension with the Dodgers, and they view him as their cornerstone catcher. He’s been a key part of their World Series success, including a stretch where he hit five home runs and drove in 16 runs during their repeat title run.
3. William Contreras, Milwaukee Brewers
Contreras has been a machine both offensively and defensively over the last four years. During that span, he has earned multiple All-Star selections and Silver Slugger awards. 2026 will be his fourth season in Milwaukee, and he has been a major piece since the trade. He is an average framer, but his quick pop time helps him control the running game.
4. Alejandro Kirk, Toronto Blue Jays
Kirk delivered an excellent offensive season in 2025, hitting .282 with 15 home runs and 76 RBIs. He is a two-time All-Star and a Silver Slugger winner. There is a case for him to be even higher, but he has not been quite as consistent as the names above him.
5. J.T. Realmuto, Philadelphia Phillies
Realmuto would have been higher on this list a few years ago, but his overall production has dipped. He still handles a heavy workload and remains slightly above average across the board. His caught stealing rate and pop time still rank among the best in the league, even as his offensive numbers trend down.
6. Dillon Dingler, Detroit Tigers
Detroit emerged as a contender in 2025, and Dingler was a big reason why. He slashed .278/.327/.425 with 13 home runs and 57 RBIs and won the AL Gold Glove. If the Tigers make another run in 2026, he will again be a key factor.
7. Shea Langeliers, A’s
Langeliers is one of the more dangerous power-hitting catchers in the game. He posted a .277/.325/.536 line with 31 home runs and 72 RBIs, and his home run total has increased in each of his three full seasons in Oakland. Another strong offensive year feels likely.
8. Drake Baldwin, Atlanta Braves
Baldwin won NL Rookie of the Year after hitting .274/.341/.469 with 19 home runs and 80 RBIs. His defense is solid and should continue to improve with experience. If the bat holds, he should be a fixture behind the plate in Atlanta for years.
9. Salvador Perez, Kansas City Royals
Perez has been one of the most decorated catchers of his era and is entering his 15th season. His batting average has dipped in recent years, but the power remains. He hit 27 and 30 home runs in 2024 and 2025, both among the highest totals of his career.
10. Patrick Bailey, San Francisco Giants
Bailey might be the best defensive catcher on this list and has filled the void left by Buster Posey well. The bat is still developing, as he hit .222 with six home runs and 50 RBIs in 2025. His defense alone earns him a spot in the top 10, but he needs more production at the plate to move higher.
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