Fri 3/10/17 11:30 AM

Gattis will play "maybe a touch more than a traditional backup [catcher] but will get plenty of time" behind Brian McCann, according to manager A.J. Hinch, Jake Kaplan of the Houston Chronicle reports. "I think what can change that is how the DH plays," Hinch said. "Obviously the performances will change. But McCann will catch a majority of the games, Gattis will catch the balance of them and then as the schedule permits and the health permits, then we'll adjust accordingly."
EDGE Analysis
Gattis continues to work on his receiving and blocking skills. The designated hitter spot also will impact Gattis' reps: Carlos Beltran may contribute a few games in the outfield, perhaps in place of lefty bats Josh Reddick and Norichika Aoki against a southpaw, which would allow Gattis to man DH. His power ranks among the best for catcher-eligible fantasy players. Even as a backup, the veteran could launch 25-plus bombs in a limited role. Fantasy owners in mixed leagues should avoid paying an exorbitant price for what could wind up as three starts per week, but of course, competitors who use two-catcher lineups would jump at adding him in the middle rounds.