#ASGWorthy: Wide open field at catcher in AL

The 2016 Esurance MLB All-Star Ballot has been released, and while the season is still young, it’s never too early to start evaluating candidates. Many have already begun to stand out, while others are sure to hit their stride in the coming months leading up to the 2016 All-Star Game presented by MasterCard on July 12 at San Diego’s Petco Park.

As fans cast their votes for who they deem worthy of 2016 All-Star status, MLB.com is going to look position by position through each league, continuing today with the American League catchers. (All stats entering play Wednesday)

• Cast your Esurance All-Star ballot #ASGWorthy players

The stalwarts You can’t mention AL catchers without first talking about Salvador Perez. The heart of the Royals has not only begun the season with sound defense, but his offensive numbers are also quite impressive. Perez ranks second among AL catchers with 14 RBIs, and he has hit four home runs.

“I know I can get better pitches to hit if I’m more patient,” Perez said about his approach at the plate this season. “It’s hard, but I have to do it.”

If Perez makes the All-Star team, it would mark his fourth straight appearance in the Midsummer Classic.

As for other veteran backstops who have been standing out, Brian McCann has been a steady presence in the Yankees’ lineup so far this season. Taking his fair share of hits behind the plate, McCann is still producing for a Yanks club that’s struggling to score runs so far this season. The backstop has tallied three home runs and seven RBIs and has a .380 on-base …

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