Posted 20 August 2014 - 07:57 PM
I believe there is absolutely room for Pinto, and his bat, on the club now and in the future.
I believe his role is that of backup C, (at least-pending), RHPH and sometimes DH as well.
Firstly, 2015 in particular is still fluid. I'm a big believer in Vargas and love his potential. Hopefully, his potential is NOW. But despite an impressive start, what if he's not ready yet for 2015 after pitchers make adjustments.
Second, every spot on a 25 man roster has the potential to help and be important. And bench roles usually revolve around two types. Catcher or not, some backups are excellent defensive players who fill in but aren't very good offensive players/hitters. The second type are offensive performers who can also fill in, but aren't necessarily very good defensive players. Neither type is right or wrong, just different. And neither hurts the team as long as not overly exposed. Pinto wasn't special, but wasn't bad, defensively in the minors, and didn't seem too bad to close out 2013. So with a little improvement, why not him as the backup catcher? There is no rule that says your backup C has to be a Butera type.
Thirdly, there can be injuries and regression. Both can lead to increased opportunity, though we don't wish for either one of them.
"Nice catch Hayes...don't ever f*****g do it again."
--Lou Brown