Arizona Diamondbacks Re-sign James McCann for 2024 Season
The Arizona Diamondbacks have secured catcher James McCann for the 2024 season, finalizing a one-year contract worth $2.75 million. This agreement, which also includes the opportunity for McCann to earn an additional $500,000 in bonuses, was confirmed by The Associated Press through a source who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the pending official announcement.
The contract was agreed upon on Thursday, following McCann’s performance with the team after joining in June. During his time with the Diamondbacks, the 35-year-old catcher posted a commendable batting average of .260, along with five home runs and 17 RBIs. His effectiveness extended beyond personal statistics, as he demonstrated an ability to work well with the organization’s younger pitchers, including Ryne Nelson and Brandon Pfaadt.
McCann’s Role and Team Dynamics
As McCann prepares for his 13th season in Major League Baseball, he is expected to serve as the backup for Gabriel Moreno. Moreno had a productive season last year, batting .285 with nine home runs and 40 RBIs. However, he has faced challenges with injuries, which opens the door for McCann to play a vital role in the team’s lineup.
McCann’s journey in the league includes a notable peak in 2019, when he was selected as an All-Star while playing for the Chicago White Sox. Throughout his career, he has maintained a batting average of .242 and has hit a total of 97 home runs.
The re-signing of McCann marks a strategic move for the Diamondbacks as they continue to build their roster ahead of the upcoming season. His experience and ability to mentor younger players will be crucial for the team as they aim to enhance their performance in the league.
The initial report on McCann’s deal came from The Athletic, with details further clarified by The Associated Press. As the season approaches, the Diamondbacks are looking to solidify their team dynamics in preparation for what they hope will be a successful year.
