Cubs Sign Longtime Mets Catcher; DFA 13-Year Veteran Catcher

The Chicago Cubs have made a move to improve their catching roster by signing veteran catcher Tomás Nido to a major league contract and designating Yan Gomes for assignment. 

This decision follows Nido's recent release from the New York Mets, who will cover most of his $2.1 million salary for the year, leaving the Cubs to pay only the prorated league minimum for his time on their roster. 

Nido, 30, is known for his strong defensive skills, including excellent framing, pitch-blocking, and a career 21% caught-stealing rate. 

The #Cubs today signed catcher Tomás Nido and designated catcher Yan Gomes for assignment. pic.twitter.com/w3rQSBNcfP

— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) June 19, 2024

While his offensive production has been modest, with a career batting line of .214/.251/.313, he brings a significant improvement over the struggling Gomes.

Yan Gomes, a respected figure in the clubhouse, has seen a significant decline in his on-field performance this season. 

Transitioning to a backup role behind Miguel Amaya, Gomes struggled offensively, hitting just .154/.179/.242 with 36 strikeouts in 96 plate appearances. 

Cubs sign catcher Tomas Nido. He had been in the Mets organization since 2012 until they DFA’d him last week pic.twitter.com/ILbNYt940Q

— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) June 19, 2024

His defensive metrics also dipped, with a below-average caught-stealing rate and framing performance. Despite his veteran presence and game-calling skills, the Cubs felt it was necessary to make a change to bolster their chances of winning games.

Manager Craig Counsell acknowledged the difficult decision but emphasized the need to upgrade for better performance both offensively and defensively. 

Nido, who batted .229/.261/.361 in 90 plate appearances with the Mets this year, is expected to provide stability behind the plate and enhance the overall performance of the Cubs' catching corps.

Photo Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports