Kansas City Royals Countdown: Top Five Catchers

credit: royals.mlb.com

2. Mike Macfarlane (1987-1994, 1996-1998, 14.2 WAR)

It is likely no surprise to see Mike Macfarlane on this list; after all, he has caught more games than any other catcher in Kansas City Royals history with 798 games behind the plate. Yet, he did not get his chance to be a full time starter until the age of 26, which he received due to an injury to Bob Boone at the start of the 1990 season.

Once he took over, Macfarlane proved to be a solid performer with the bat. During his time with the Royals, Macfarlane posted a .256/.327/.439 batting line with 103 home runs. While Macfarlane was not exactly great at drawing a walk, his ability to get hit by pitches was excellent, as he led the American League in that category in both 1992 and 1994.

Defensively, Mike Macfarlane was a steady player, but was not spectacular. He had his issues with passed balls at times, particularly in that one season he spent in Boston, but had a strong throwing arm and was solid behind the plate. He was never Gold Glove caliber, but Macfarlane was not a disaster either.

Mike Macfarlane was a steady, solid catcher for the Kansas City Royals. Given his longevity and decent performance, it is not a surprise he would make this list.

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