A Molina Perhaps

According to the Star-Ledger's Marc Carig, neither Jesus Montero or Austin Romine may be backing up Russ Martin until Francisco Cervelli heals up.

There's a very real possibility that both will get more playing time at Scranton with Gustavo Molina getting the reserve catcher role. “Molina was brought in to be an insurance policy for us,” Brian Cashman said. “That’s why he’s here. He’s got major-league time.”

Molina isn't related to the triumvirate of Bengie, Jose, and Yadier, and has just 23 games of Major League experience with the White Sox, Orioles, Mets, and Red Sox. The 29-yr old has a .122 lifetime batting average in 45 at-bats.

Catch me if you Can

Steve Goldman of YES' Pinstriped Bible thinks the Yankees need to come to Spring Training better prepared in the catching department. We couldn't agree more. It's already been stated that Jorge Posada won't be ready for the first Spring game. Goldman points out that the only Yankees catcher with experience, other than Jose Molina, is Kevin Cash, who doesn't carry much of a stick. As last year proved, you can never have enough bats, and without knowing how healthy Posada will be, (and how effective) it's even more important.

Goldman mentions Miguel Montero of the Diamondbacks, who are looking for a big return on their 25-yr old property. We like Texas' Jarrod Saltalamacchia, who has been mentioned in trade rumors a lot, but he has yet to prove he can hit big league pitching, and the position may not be his future.

The remaining free agents are, for the most part, 36 years of age or older. Greg Zaun can still, but can't throw out anyone. We saw how little Ivan Rodriguez has in the tank. Paul LoDuca? No thanks, Barnum & Bailey should be the only circus in town. Jason Varitek can't hit any more or he'd already be back with Boston (not like he would ever sign here anyway).

Yeah, that's what we thought. Kevin Cash will be Molina's back up.