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Ready for the limelight in New York, James McCann transitions from non-tendered to the Mets' prized catcher

Reflecting on his transition from being non-tendered by the Detroit Tigers to securing a four-year, $40.6 million contract as the starting catcher for the Mets in Queens, James McCann shares his journey.

ready for the limelight in New York: James McCann, previously without a contract with the Mets, now...
ready for the limelight in New York: James McCann, previously without a contract with the Mets, now established as their prestigious catcher

Ready for the limelight in New York, James McCann transitions from non-tendered to the Mets' prized catcher

James McCann Joins New York Mets on Four-Year Deal

James McCann, a highly regarded major league catcher, has signed a four-year, $40.6 million deal with the New York Mets. The deal, which begins in the 2021 season, sees McCann join a star-studded pitching staff that includes Jacob deGrom, Marcus Stroman, and Noah Syndergaard.

McCann's exceptional defensive abilities and game-calling skills have made him a valuable asset in the majors. He is recognised for his exceptional defensive abilities, having caught 112 error-free games, leading all MLB catchers and becoming only the sixth catcher ever to catch over 100 games without an error[1]. His strong arm and quick release have resulted in him throwing out around 40 percent of base stealers, an elite rate[1].

In addition to his defensive prowess, McCann is praised for his leadership and proficiency in managing pitchers. His ability to strategize and communicate effectively with pitchers has earned him high praise, with his leadership described as "off the charts"[1]. McCann's easygoing nature and lack of a cookie-cutter approach with pitchers have also contributed to his success in managing the pitching staff.

Offensively, McCann has contributed with solid hitting and occasional power, slashing .276/.334/.474 with 25 home runs and 75 RBI over the last two seasons while playing for the Chicago White Sox[5].

McCann's decision to join the Mets was influenced by the addition of a new owner, team president Sandy Alderson, and general manager Jared Porter, among others. Despite the bright lights of New York, McCann has not expressed feelings of pressure regarding his new environment.

Throughout his career, McCann has played in smaller markets, including Detroit and Chicago. He is well-known for his belief that the value of the relationship between a catcher and pitcher is not fully measured in baseball, and he takes great pride in his defense and calling an effective game[1]. McCann values this relationship, believing that understanding what makes a pitcher tick is crucial to their success[2].

McCann is excited about the next four years as a New York Met and hopes to win multiple championships during his time with the team[4]. He looks forward to contributing to the Mets' success and continuing his exceptional play behind the plate.

[1] ESPN

[2] MLB Trade Rumors

[3] MLB.com

[4] New York Post

[5] Baseball Reference

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