I am pretty disgusted with Josh Thole right now, and there is one reason why — defense.
I was one of the unfortunate people to be inside the prison known at Citifield today to witness what looked to be a solid Johan Santana versus Stephen Strasburg match-up. Now, the Mets had a solid approach against Strasburg early, but after squandering a first inning opportunity, they didn’t do much after.
Losses happen, that’s for sure, but errors due to laziness should not be tolerated. Josh Thole has looked solid with the best during the season’s first week. The guy I used to refer to as “Mr. ground out to second” is hitting the ball with authority. We know he can hit enough to be the starter, but his defense leaves much to be desired.
Today, his miscues were on full display. A very blockable wild pitch lead to the game’s first run, and he also dropped another routine pitch while a National was attempting to steal second. so he wasn’t credited with a passed ball. Countless other times, balls squirted out of the glove, and he needs to round out that part of his game to be an everyday catcher.
Tomorrow is an off day, but if Thole plays Friday, can you imagine his confidence in catching the knuckle ball? I will certainly be saying my prayers.
