Angels Manager Addresses Logan O’Hoppe’s Reduced Playing Time, Cites Defensive Struggles
Earlier this season, the Los Angeles Angels kept consistent pairings between pitchers and catchers, with Logan O’Hoppe frequently behind the plate for Jack Kochanowicz, Tyler Anderson, and José Soriano, while Travis d’Arnaud caught for Yusei Kikuchi and Kyle Hendricks.
Recently, the Angels have made adjustments, with O’Hoppe catching for Hendricks in his last two starts, while d’Arnaud caught for Anderson and Kochanowicz. Ray Montgomery, who is filling in as manager while Ron Washington deals with health issues, explained that the team wants to give each catcher and starting pitcher a chance to develop a stronger working relationship. He also mentioned that O’Hoppe would eventually catch for Kikuchi as part of that plan.
However, Montgomery also acknowledged that O’Hoppe’s defensive struggles have factored into some of the recent changes in playing time, such as d’Arnaud catching for Kochanowicz on Monday.
“I wish I could say no to that, but a big part of that position is serving the 13 people throwing the baseball to you,” Montgomery said when asked if O’Hoppe’s defense had influenced the decision. “Logan’s offensive performance speaks for itself, but his defense has to improve.”
O’Hoppe has had some defensive issues, ranking in the fifth percentile for blocking pitches and the 12th percentile in framing, but his bat has been impressive. The 25-year-old ranks fifth in the American League with 17 home runs.
Montgomery added that O’Hoppe is fully aware of his defensive shortcomings and is working to improve. “He knows that. He’s working on it. It wears on him, and we’re doing everything we can to help him improve,” Montgomery said.
O’Hoppe has expressed that he feels more consistent playing time could help him develop better rhythm at the plate, but Montgomery suggested that the young catcher is still learning how to manage the full responsibilities of an MLB catcher.
Turning 25 in February, O’Hoppe is in his third season of playing at least 50 games, and while he has shown great promise, it’s clear he’s just beginning to scratch the surface of what could be a very successful career.
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