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CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Guardians had a good thing going when David Fry could play all over the diamond, including getting behind the plate. Fry’s versatility, along with his production with the bat, played a big part in Cleveland’s success in the first half of the season and Fry making the AL All-Star team. More Guardians coverage When did the AL Central become Postseason Central? Cleveland Guardians, Minnesota Twins starting lineups for Sept.
18, 2024: Game 153 Carlos Carrasco’s unforgettable ride in Cleveland and what could be next for ‘Cookie’ (Podcast) On June 23, Fry was behind the plate in a game against Toronto when he made an awkward throw to second base. Something didn’t feel right in Fry’s right elbow and Bo Naylor replaced him. Fry has caught one game since.
In fact, he’s been used exclusively as a DH or first baseman since the elbow injury. Manager Stephen Vogt was asked about Fry seeing any more time behind the plate in the final 10 games of the season or in the postseason if the Guardians qualify. “We’re still not sure.
I mean it’s a long shot,” said Vogt. “This guy has been through so much this year going from playing every day, playing multiple positions, making the All-Star team to not being able to catch, not being able to play outfield.” Vogt said Fry handled the situation well.
“He has not changed his demeanor whatsoever,” said Vogt. “We were talking to him the other day and told him, ‘Hey, why don’t you just go catch some bullpen, have some fun and go help our pitchers. The pitchers love it and it’s fun for David.
’ “It was go stay sharp, make sure you’re ready just in case, but also just go enjoy catching. He worked so hard to get himself to the point where he was early in the year.” When Fry injured his elbow, he was hitting .
312 (48 for 154) with eight homer and 31 RBI. He went into Wednesday’s game against the Twins batting .261 (85 for 326) with 14 homers and 50 RBI.
As a reminder, Fry started 14 games at catcher, 17 at first base, 13 in left field, two in right field and 40 at DH, including Wednesday night. So far, so good When Alex Cobb threw his bullpen session Tuesday, Fry caught him. Cobb is recovering from a blister on the middle finger of his right hand.
“The reports were good,” said Vogt. “We’re working on the next steps, whether that’s a sim-game or a rehab outing.” Vogt said the next step is up to the medical staff with input from Cobb and pitching coach Carl Willis.
“Alex is driving the bus on this,” said Vogt. “He knows what he needs to do to get ready.” The Guardians placed Cobb on the injured list on Sept.
12. The plan if for Cobb to make at least one more big-league start before the regular season ends..
