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Red Sox Sign Veteran Catcher Yasmani Grandal to Minor League Deal Amid Injury Concerns. The Boston Red Sox have added some much-needed depth behind the plate, signing veteran catcher Yasmani Grandal to a minor league contract following an injury to starting catcher Connor Wong.
The move, first reported earlier this week, brings a seasoned presence into the organization at a time when the Red Sox’s catching depth is being tested early in the season. Grandal, 36, is a two-time All-Star with a wealth of experience, having spent time with the Dodgers, Brewers, and most recently the White Sox.
Known for his pitch framing and on-base ability during his prime, Grandal brings leadership and veteran savvy to a Boston team that is currently scrambling to stabilize its roster amid a wave of injuries. While Grandal is not expected to be a long-term solution, he offers a stopgap option with a proven MLB track record.
Grandal’s best years came between 2015 and 2020, when he was one of the league’s premier catchers both defensively and at the plate. He posted several seasons with 20+ home runs, consistently drew walks, and was regarded as one of the top pitch framers in baseball.
His 2019 season with Milwaukee, in particular, stood out—he hit 28 home runs, posted a .380 on-base percentage, and played 153 games, showcasing his durability and value as a two-way catcher. However, Grandal’s production has declined in recent years.
He has struggled to stay healthy and has not posted an OPS+ over 100—the league average—since 2021. His 2023 season with the White Sox saw him slash just .234/.309/.339 in 118 games, with a noticeable drop in power and mobility behind the plate.
That said, the Red Sox aren’t bringing in Grandal to be an everyday player. Instead, they’re hoping he can be a steadying force and insurance policy while Wong recovers and the team assesses its younger catching options. Boston’s catching depth chart took a hit when Wong went down with an injury, and while Reese McGuire remains on the roster, the club has few reliable options beyond him at the major league level. Top prospect Kyle Teel, though highly regarded, may still be a few months away from being MLB-ready. Rather than rush his development or take a gamble on another untested minor leaguer, the Red Sox opted for a known quantity in Grandal.
The minor league deal allows Boston to evaluate Grandal at Triple-A Worcester and see what he has left in the tank before making any roster decisions. If he performs well or if the big league catching situation becomes more dire, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him called up for a short-term role.
Beyond his on-field contributions, Grandal could serve as a mentor to the organization’s younger catchers, including Teel and McGuire. His experience managing pitching staffs, calling games, and handling the mental demands of the position could prove invaluable—especially for a team that’s balancing development with the need to stay competitive.
For Grandal, this opportunity is likely one last chance to prove he can still contribute at the big-league level. While his best days are clearly behind him, veterans like Grandal can often find ways to stay relevant with good preparation, baseball IQ, and leadership.
For the Red Sox, it’s a low-risk signing with a potential short-term reward. As the 2025 season moves forward, Grandal will be one of the players to watch at Worcester.
If injuries persist or production falters at the major league level, don’t be surprised to see the former All-Star donning Red Sox gear at Fenway Park sometime this spring. — Want a shorter summary or social post to go with it?
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