The catching role has unexpectedly become a hot topic for the Boston Red Sox this season, with more developments likely on the way. Connor Wong began the season as the primary catcher, while Carlos Narváez was designated as the backup.

However, Wong struggled significantly at the plate and then suffered a fractured pinky due to catcher’s interference earlier this month. Narváez, although not exceptional offensively, has been outstanding defensively, leading all major league catchers with six defensive runs saved as of Sunday.

Red Sox pitchers have praised his ability to handle games, making it clear he excels at game-calling. Meanwhile, Wong is on the path to recovery, playing for the Triple-A Worcester Red Sox on Sunday, aiming to make his return within a week.

It seems Narváez hasn’t completely claimed the starting spot, but future playing time may be more evenly distributed. On Sunday, manager Alex Cora hinted to reporters that the distribution of playing time will be more balanced than before Wong’s injury when he started seven of the first 11 games. “He’ll get his share of games.

I’m not saying we’ll split the week evenly, but he’ll play a lot,” Cora mentioned, according to Christopher Smith of MassLive. Cora also commended Narváez’s defensive prowess. “If you look at the stats, he’s been the top defensive catcher in the majors,” Cora noted. “We specifically targeted him in the offseason, and Henry Blanco, who managed him in Winter Ball, spoke highly of him.

This is fantastic.” Major League Baseball is performance-based, and Narváez has earned increased playing time. Meanwhile, if Wong desires to regain his initial playing time, he’ll need to replicate his offensive success from the first half of the 2024 season.