Braves catcher Anthony Recker got a hit, a pinch-hit single, in his first plate appearance with the Braves on Friday.
They can use all the offensive punch he can bring but his work behind the plate probably is more important for a team with three young pitchers in the rotation.
“It’s something I think I’m pretty good at, is trying to get to know guys and help them along the way and teach them a few things if I can and just really guide them,” Recker said Saturday. “They all have the stuff so it’s just a matter of getting them mentally locked in.”
The Braves promoted Recker from Triple-A Gwinnett on Friday while sending catcher Tyler Flowers (hand) to the disabled list. Flowers had been splitting time with catcher A.J. Pierzynski.
In 59 games this season between Gwinnett and Indians affiliate Columbus, Recker hit .244 with .348 on-base percentage and .421 slugging percentage. In 167 games over six previous big-league seasons Recker hit .185 with a .260 OBP and .334 SLG.
Recker, 31, said he’s made strides offensively after working with Mets hitting coach Kevin Long during the off season.
“Really trying to stay tight inside the baseball, trying to keep things simple (with) as little movement as possible,” he said.
