One of the biggest knocks on New York Yankees catcher Gary Sanchez is his defensive efficiency, specifically when it comes to blocking balls and framing pitches. Sanchez has struggled at times with his weight distribution and ability to play consistent defense behind the plate, which has hurt his confidence.
However, this offseason, the Bombers and new catching instructor, Tanner Swanson, are doing everything they can to turn Sanchez into one of the game’s best defensive catchers.
Swanson stated regarding Sanchez’s past stance and development, according to NJ.com:
We can look specifically at the position and Gary was getting into last year, I think, just in general, when when runners are on base, which is over 50 percent of pitches thrown come with runners.