The grim face of the manager said it all – the potentially devastating news of star Thieves catcher Patrick Igoe's shoulder injury had the potential to disrupt preparation for the Drunken Cup immeasurably. The hardest position on the diamond to play is generally also the hardest to replace, and for the Thieves squad of 08, this has been the case.  Here we look at the brave men stepping into fill Comrade Igoe's sizeable shoes.

Peter Cho

Peter Cho, the man who up until now has shared catching duties with Igoe, is going to have to step up and shoulder a heavy load over the next few weeks. Possessing first rate tools, including probably the best raw arm in the club, Cho has made great strides forward this year with his work behind the plate. Whereas in previous years he has been let down at times by his occasional lapses in judgement in the field, a summer behind the plate in his native Vancouver has seen a much improved performance thus far this season. On the other side of the ball, a clutch triple was demonstration of his continuing ability with the bat, but an increase in plate discipline is necessary to see him cut down on the strikeouts, and wait for better pitches to hit. He will be hoping to improve on his tally of three long balls from the 07 season in the coming months. The Thieves will be hoping he can hold up to catching three of the four games scheduled at the cup.

Masakazu Togashi

Masa Togashi, the ultimate team player, has served the Thieves outstandingly in his spells behind the plate this season. He makes up for his somewhat weak arm with great receiving skills and excellent game calling. Sadly, Togashi will be unavailable for the tournament due to work commitments.

George Lintern

The rookie phenom is best noted for his ability with the bat and on the mound, but with a first rate arm and great glove, combined with an excellent working knowledge of the intricacies of the game, who would bet against him making an excellent catcher?

Aaron Crute

The most versatile of players, Crute impressed behind the plate in a trial run during a Thieves scrimmage game. Although he admits that catcher is not his preferred position, the Thieves backroom staff know that this consummate professional would step up and perform if required.

Shannon Henry

A talented catcher by all evidence, unfortunately Henry is ineligible for the Drunken Cup, but his services will undoubtedly prove invaluable during the remainder of the season.

 

Next Week: From First to Third - The men on the corners for the Thieves.