Popular SF Giants catching prospect returns to camp after injury absence

There is one picture available of SF Giants prospect Brett Auerbach and it is, of course, of him playing second base. You will notice that Giants legend Dom Nuñez is sliding into second base during a spring training camp from last year.

Auerbach is back in camp according to Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle. He was originally a non-roster invitee but arrived late as he was dealing with elbow neuritis. Giants outfielder Austin Slater is dealing with the same injury as well. The good news is that Auerbach has recovered and already playing.

Popular SF Giants catching prospect returns to camp after injury absence

In his absence, the Giants brought another catcher in Andy Thomas to camp. You can never have enough catchers in spring training, so the Giants felt that it was necessary to fill Auerbach's absence.

The versatile catcher was invited to spring training last season after having a very strong 2021 campaign in which he posted a .907 OPS with 17 home runs and 30 stolen bases in 37 opportunities in 368 plate appearances across two levels.

Plus, he has demonstrated unique versatility, appearing at second base, third base, left field, center field, and catcher. Catcher is one of his primary positions along with second base. He also had one of the most impressive players in baseball at any level last year:

He does a lot of good things on the baseball field, which will improve his chances of reaching the majors. His 2022 season was more challenging as he earned an aggressive assignment to Double-A. He registered a .220/.311/.398 with 17 home runs, 53 RBI, and 54 runs in 425 plate appearances with the Richmond Flying Squirrels. This includes an 11.2 percent walk rate against a 32.0 percent strikeout rate.

Richmond plays in the Eastern League and this has proven to be a tough assignment for a lot of hitters. The expansive outfield dimensions along with a cold and wet climate suppress offense. Plus, the pitching is relatively advanced at that point.

Auerbach wasted no time in reintroducing himself as he blasted a home run in his first game back from injury. So far, he has recorded one hit in four at-bats in the Cactus League. He does not have a shot at breaking camp with the club, but this is a valuable experience for the catching prospect.