Tyler Heineman

After playing sparingly for two years as Steve Rodriguez's backup, Heineman assumed the everyday job this spring and had a breakout season. He hit over .400 deep into the season before cooling off late. With a stocky 5-foot-10 build that evokes Mike LaValliere or a Molina brother, Heineman is a hard-working, blue-collar player with a passion for the game. He's not a polished receiver but projects as an average defender with enough quickness to block balls in the dirt effectively. He handles pitchers well and controls the running game, thanks to an average arm and a quick transfer and release. Offensively, Heineman is a switch-hitter with a contact approach from both sides. He sprays the ball around the field and doesn't strike out often, but he doesn't offer any power. He profiles as a solid backup catcher in the big leagues.