Veteran catchers rarely generate headlines in July, but their value becomes clear when contenders suddenly need stability behind the plate.
That was the situation facing the Kansas City Royals after an injury to franchise face Salvador Perez forced them to look for experienced depth at catcher.
And for Toronto Blue Jays fans, that need from an American League rival has now opened another chapter in the career of a familiar face.
Former Toronto Blue Jays Catcher Back In The Big Leagues After Star Injury
After spending time with six different organizations over more than a decade, including a three-year stint with the Blue Jays, Luke Maile has been called up as the Royals’ solution.
“The Royals announced that they have selected the contract of catcher Luke Maile,” Darragh McDonald reported for MLB Trade Rumors. “Outfielder John Rave has been optioned to Triple-A Omaha as the corresponding active roster move. The Royals opened a 40-man spot by designating right-hander Eric Cerantola for assignment.”
The promotion gives Maile another opportunity to contribute at the highest level after beginning the season in Triple-A. While he has primarily filled reserve and organizational depth roles throughout his career, teams have consistently valued his experience handling pitching staffs.
“Maile will add depth behind the plate for the Royals while Salvador Perez nurses a sore elbow,” NBC Sports reported. “The 35-year-old backstop hasn’t appeared in a big league game this season and has hit .202/.324/.303 with two homers and nine RBI in 105 plate appearances at Triple-A Omaha this season.”
Though his offensive numbers have been modest, Maile’s defensive reputation and familiarity with veteran pitching staffs have helped extend his major league career.
Toronto Blue Jays Veteran Continues Lengthy MLB Journey
Maile’s latest promotion adds another stop to one of baseball’s longest-running journeyman careers. After originally debuting with the Tampa Bay Rays in 2015, he spent parts of three seasons with the Blue Jays before continuing his career with several other organizations.
Between 2017 and 2019, Maile appeared in more than 150 games for the Blue Jays, slashing just .193/.257/.293 while posting a .989 fielding percentage.
“Maile, 35, is a journeyman depth catcher,” McDonald added. “Over the years, he has suited up for the Rays, Blue Jays, (Milwaukee) Brewers, (Cleveland) Guardians, (Cincinnati) Reds and Royals. He has appeared in 465 games in that time. He has a .209/.277/.320 line in 1,304 trips to the plate.”
For Kansas City, the move is designed to provide some insurance while Perez works through his elbow issue. For Maile, it represents another chance to contribute on a major league roster after years of carving out a role as one of baseball’s most dependable veteran backup catchers.