Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora has drawn attention to Matt Thaiss, a non-roster invitee, during spring training, sparking rumors about a potential shift in the backup catcher role currently held by Connor Wong. Cora’s remarks over the weekend underscored Thaiss’s solid showing, indicating that a crucial roster decision could be imminent as the season approaches. The competition now centers around Matt Thaiss roster competition with Wong for the backup catching spot on the team.
Connor Wong’s Struggles Raise Doubts About His Role
Connor Wong entered spring training seemingly secure in his position as the Red Sox’s backup catcher, but his difficult 2025 campaign has put that status in question. Wong lost his starting duties and posted a low .500 OPS last season, casting uncertainty over his long-term fit with Boston. Meanwhile, Carlos Narváez remains the team’s primary catcher, maintaining a stable presence behind the plate.
Matt Thaiss’s Background and Recent Performance
The addition of Matt Thaiss, a former first-round draft pick with six partial MLB seasons under his belt, signals the Red Sox’s intention to deepen their catching options. Thaiss recorded a .638 OPS across 60 games last season and managed to hit one home run. His experience and performance have made him a notable challenger for the backup catcher role.
Manager Alex Cora’s Public Praise for Thaiss After Recent Game
Following Boston’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays, Cora openly commended Thaiss’s development, emphasizing the left-handed player’s contributions.
Matty Thaiss is impressing people here,
Cora remarked, according to Tim Healey of The Boston Globe.
His swing is really good. He’s left-handed. He’s been able to control the pitching staff. He’s a guy who has been catching our eye.
Contractual Terms Add Complexity to Roster Decisions
Complicating the decision is Thaiss’s minor-league contract, which includes an upward mobility clause. This agreement means that if Thaiss is not placed on the Red Sox’s 40-man roster and another team offers him a 40-man spot, Boston must either add him to their own roster or risk losing him. This contractual detail pressures the organization to find a roster solution if they want to keep Thaiss within the system.
Roster Strategy and Catching Depth Considerations
The Red Sox face a strategic choice: promoting Thaiss to the 40-man roster might be necessary to retain him, likely as the backup catcher. In contrast, Connor Wong has remaining minor league options, allowing the team to send him to Triple-A without exposing him to waivers. This flexibility makes Wong a more manageable option in terms of roster moves, though Thaiss’s progress commands serious consideration.
Implications for the Red Sox’s Catcher Situation Moving Forward
The emerging contest between Matt Thaiss and Connor Wong for the backup catcher role adds a layer of anticipation as spring training continues. Cora’s positive comments on Thaiss combined with contractual pressures suggest the Red Sox are leaning toward a shift in their catcher depth chart. The outcome of this competition could significantly influence Boston’s roster construction and catching strategy heading into the regular season.
