Detroit — He might be the perfect catching contradiction. Or, rather, the imperfect study.
James McCann’s early big-league profile was concise. A second-round draft pick from the University of Arkansas was a blessed defender and owned a fine throwing arm. It was the bat scouts had questions about.
Now, concerns drift more toward defense for a Tigers catcher, 27, who has begun his fourth season as the team’s starter.
In tandem with blocking and framing skills that appear to have diminished, a McCann paradox can be found even in his new, bulkier physique. During the offseason he added 15-20 pounds, 10 of which were pumped into his legs as a means, in McCann’s mind, to get stronger and add “mobility” to his catching base.