40 in 40: Andrew Knizner's Journey to Backup Catcher
The Seattle Mariners faced a challenge this winter with the departure of Mitch Garver, leaving a gap in their catching corps. But here's the twist: they might have found a solution in Andrew Knizner, a player who has proven his resilience and adaptability.
The Catching Conundrum
Let's talk about the pressure of catching. It's a demanding position, and many teams opt for a balanced job share to keep their catchers healthy. But when your star player, Cal Raleigh, is shouldering an immense workload behind the plate, it's tough for a backup to shine. Raleigh's historic 2025 season, with 60 homers, is a testament to his talent, but it also highlights the strain on his body.
Knizner's Rise to the Challenge
Andrew Knizner, drafted in the 7th round in 2016 by the St. Louis Cardinals, has a history of stepping up when others falter. His big league debut in 2019, after Yadier Molina's injury, showcased his potential. Despite limited playing time, Knizner seized his chance in 2021, playing 63 games and collecting 185 plate appearances. While his results weren't stellar, his walk rate and BABIP suggested untapped potential.
A New Role, A New Challenge
In 2022, Knizner faced a unique challenge. With Molina's final season and knee inflammation, he became a key player. Starting 78 games behind the plate, his 77 wRC+ was an improvement, but defensive marks remained a concern. The Cardinals signed Willson Contreras, ensuring Knizner's role remained secondary.
2023: A Year of Growth
Knizner's 2023 season was a turning point. He finally found power, hitting 10 homers and posting a 92 wRC+ over 241 plate appearances. However, this came at the cost of higher strikeout and walk rates, which the Cardinals didn't find satisfactory.
The Rangers, Diamondbacks, and Nationals
After a non-tender from the Cardinals, Knizner signed with the Rangers, then the Diamondbacks, and finally the Nationals. Despite a strong start in Triple-A Rochester, he faced releases and promotions, playing just 33 games with the Giants. His numbers remained consistent, but something changed at the plate.
2025: A Clutch Performance
In 2025, Knizner's strikeout rate halved, and his walk rate remained steady. He showcased clutch moments, with a +.163 WPA, including a go-ahead triple against his former club. While his sample size was small, Knizner's defensive improvements and process changes are worth monitoring.
The Mariners' Move
The Mariners signed Knizner to a one-year, $1 million deal, just over the league minimum. With Jhonny Pereda as a third catcher, Knizner's lack of options and big league experience make him the likely backup. Expectations will be tempered, but if he can maintain his contact gains, he'll be a reliable replacement for the irreplaceable, giving Raleigh's knees some rest.
