Guardians’ third-string catcher turns first start into showcase with 3-run homer
David Fry #DavidFry
SAN DIEGO — Terry Francona considered it a fact-finding mission.
Well, nothing concrete has been decided on how David Fry operates behind the plate, but he certainly has a nice swing. The rookie proved that by hitting a three-run homer in the first inning Thursday night to stake the Guardians to an early 5-0 lead against the Padres at Petco Park.
Francona, speaking before the game, said he wanted to find out more about Fry, the catcher. That’s how he ended up making his first big-league start at catcher.
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Fry arrived from Class AAA Columbus on May 1, but has seen only sporadic playing time in a utility role. Thursday was just his fourth start in the big leagues. The other three came at first base (twice) and third base (once).
The Guardians are carrying three catchers — Mike Zunino, Cam Gallagher and Fry. Here’s how Francona settled on Fry for Thursday night’s start.
“I’ve been trying to figure out how to get Fry a start,” said Francona. “Today seemed to make the most sense to me.
“Cam is OK, but he got that foul tip (off the mask) on Tuesday. I’m trying to be aware of that. Z has had a tough week. And Logan Allen (Thursday’s starter) is a guy Fry has some familiarity with from last year.
“I’m just trying to find out more.”
Fry besides his starts at first and third base has appeared in parts of 10 games at catcher. He appeared in 23 games at Columbus, but none of them were at catcher. In 2022, after being acquired from the Brewers for right-hander J.C. Mejia, he did appear in 12 games behind the plate for the Clippers.
“It’s intriguing,” said Francona. “He hasn’t caught a ton, but when he’s back there he looks OK. He’s got pretty good arm strength, has a quick transfer. I think the offensive part is always a struggle for guys who aren’t used to not playing.
“I don’t even know how to evaluate that.”
Fry may have helped Francona’s evaluation in that regard. Before he even squatted behind the plate, Fry’s three-run homer cleared the fence in left field to turn a 2-0 lead into a 5-0 lead against lefty Ryan Weathers.
The right-handed hitting Fry came into the game hitting .167 (3 for 18) without a homer or RBI. The home run checked those boxes off his to-do list.
There may be more at work here as well, and it could involve prospect Bo Naylor. If Francona chose to start an untested rookie behind the plate instead of the experienced Zunino, a change could be coming.
They may make a move with Zunino or put Gallagher on the concussion list.
Naylor is currently hitting .258 (55 for 213) ith 13 homers and 48 RBI at Columbus.
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