Catching, Infield and Outfield Uncertainty Shape 2027 Roster

The Rutschman-Basallo catching plan unraveled through the reported trade, injuries and underperformance, leaving Carlos Narváez as the primary catcher and Heston Kjerstad as depth. Basallo's workload, Holliday and Westburg's recoveries, Mayo's role, Cowser's offense, Encarnacion-Strand's unexpected production and the search for affordable center-field help remain central offseason questions.