Chris

Gimenez

Gimenez did some pitching and catching for the Cubs and Twins in 2018, but this new speciality coaching gig in Los Angeles presumably signals an end to his playing days. The 35-year-old batted .218/.307/.344 over parts of 10 major league seasons. The Dodgers have also promoted Aaron Bates from the minors to serve as their new assistant hitting coach at the MLB level.

Garver suffered a concussion last Wednesday and is still experiencing symptoms. It sounds like the 27-year-old catcher might not be able to return to action before the end of the regular season. Willians Astudillo and Chris Gimenez are filling in behind the plate for the Twins.

Garver took a foul tip off the mask last Wednesday and hasn’t played since. In fact, he hadn’t even been sitting in the dugout until Sunday. It doesn’t appear that his return is imminent. Willians Astudillo and Chris Gimenez have been handling the catching duties for the Twins in Garver’s absence.

Bengie Molina already has some playing time locked up, and Gimenez will compete with Jose Lobaton and Robinson Chirinos for time behind the veteran. It’s possible Gimenez could have an edge based on the fact that he can also play first base and the outfield. No matter who wins the spot behind Molina, the Rays catcher spot looks to be a fantasy wasteland this year.

This news means that Jose Lobaton has secured the Rays’ backup catcher job. Gimenez was 4-for-39 this spring.

Lobaton was placed on the disabled list last weekend with right shoulder soreness. He underwent an MRI on Monday which revealed only inflammation. Chris Gimenez will continue to serve as Jose Molina’s backup for now.

The timetable for his return isn’t yet clear, but this obviously reduces his chances of making the Opening Day roster. The 27-year-old is currently competing with Jose Lobaton, Stephen Vogt and Chris Gimenez for the Rays’ backup catcher job.

Gimenez narrowly lost the Rays’ backup catcher job to Jose Lobaton during the spring, and will now replace him on the active roster as Lobaton is headed for the disabled list. Gimenez will serve as the primary backup for Jose Molina going forward but could also see some work at first base or in the outfield.

Gimenez was designated for assignment by the Mariners earlier this month and declined an outright assignment to Triple-A Tacoma this week. The 29-year-old catcher hit .203/.314/.271 in 70 plate appearances last season.

Gimenez was non-tendered earlier this week, but is now back on the M’s 40-man roster. The 28-year-old catcher batted .203/.314/.271 across 70 plate appearances in 2011.