Austin Wynns joined the Los Angeles Dodgers after being designated for assignment by the San Francisco Giants in early April. The veteran catcher filled a role when Will Smith spent some time on the seven-day injured list for a concussion.
Wynns appeared in just one game for the Giants before joining the Dodgers, and from April 17 through April 26, he collected two hits with the Dodgers, driving in two runs in five games.
The Dodgers designated him for assignment on May 1, and he was claimed off waivers by the Colorado Rockies on May 4, staying in the National League West. Wynns carved out a decent role with his third club of the year, appearing in 45 games until he was sent outright to the Albuquerque Isotopes in Triple-A.
With the Rockies, Wynns threw out 10 of 24 runners on stolen base attempts. He ranked fouth in Major League Baseball in catchers caught stealing above average with a five grade, while ranking as the best in MLB in exchange time among qualified backstops (0.56).
On the season, Wynns posted a .208/.268/.277 slash with one home run, six doubles, 10 RBI, with nine walks in 130 at-bats with the Giants, Dodgers and Rockies.
Austin Wynns 2023 highlight
In his first at-bat with the Dodgers, Wynns clubbed a two-run double to the right field wall.
His extra-base hit gave the Dodgers a 3-2 lead over the New York Mets. It was his only extra-base hit during his five game tenure.
2024 outlook
In mid-December, the Cincinnati Reds signed the veteran catcher to a Major League Contract in December, designating him for assignment on January 2 in an attempt to clear him through waivers.
The Reds outrightted Wynns to the Louisville Bats in Triple-A, and he will receive an invitation to Spring Training for the upcoming season to compete for their backup catcher spot.
The backstop will likely fill the same role he did in 2023, providing organizational catching depth while making appearances in the Major Leagues when necessary.
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