I included the two veteran catchers released by the Nationals this week, basically on account of the fact that they both have in the recent past put up much better numbers than our other options. Like I said, it seems like Baker has the ball to run with for the moment, but no catcher plays every game, and I figure they'll be more likely to give him days off vs LHP. But either way, here are the choices:

 

Matt Treanor - the sentimental favorite of everyone who hated Olivo, is currently injured, but even when healthy, still puts up 660 OPS, basically even vs LHP or RHP.

 

Paul Hoover - No doubt he is only getting time here because of the lack of depth at this position in the organization. An OPS under 500 this season and for his ML career in very limited playing time.

 

Mike Rabelo - He was the primary catcher for a little while, but played almost exclusively against RHP, while his numbers are generally better against LHP. If no other argument can be made - he'll probably produce more than Hoover and Treanor is hurt.

 

Paul Lo Duca - For all the negative about him mentioned on another thread, his OPS last year and over the last 3 years vs LHP was around 850. So if the goal is to find a platoon partner to hit LHP and Lo Duca can be signed cheap, he might make good sense.

 

Johnny Estrada - another veteran catcher released by the Nats who is also a switch hitter. A better hitter in his career than our in house options, he doesn't fit the platoon mold though. His numbers are a little better vs RHP, but he's relatively close to even.

I chose Matt Treanor.

Gotta be Treanor. For de facto reasons as well.

I also chose Treanor, every one of those other guys has some sort of baggage, with Treanor (at least when healthy) you know what you're gonna get. Our best hope long term is that Baker, Rabello or someone else in the organization develops into a true #1 catcher, in that case I'd be more than happy with Treanor as the reliable backup.

Baker as soon as Treanor comes back. I like my catcher to be able to play some defense.

The problem with Treanor is that he's hurt. Even if he comes back, he still needs surgery. What if he gets too injured to play in September? Would we be allowed to replace him with another catcher on the roster and still be eligible for the post season? I don't know how that works when it comes to injuries.