Danny Jansen landing spots: 3 possible destinations for veteran catcher after disappointing season

It was an interesting season to say the least for veteran catcher Danny Jansen. Although he struggled to consistently produce at the plate, he also became the first player in MLB history to play for both teams in the same game. Jansen opened the year with the Toronto Blue Jays before being dealt to the Boston Red Sox on July 27. The two teams happened to have a postponed game from June 26 that continued after the trade on Aug. 26.

Even though he made history, it was a difficult year for the 29-year-old. Danny Jansen posted a disappointing .205 batting average with 9 home runs, 24 RBIs, and a .658 OPS. That being said, he has been better throughout his MLB career to this point, which should help him land another contract sooner rather than later.

Another reason why Jansen could become a sought-after name on the open market is the fact that most of the other top catchers have already signed. Kyle Higashioka and Travis d'Arnaud have both inked deals, which shifts the focus to Jansen. Things could get interesting for the veteran backstop.

Here's a look at 3 potential landing spots for Danny Jansen in free agency

#1 - Tampa Bay Rays

The Tampa Bay Rays have made it clear that they want to upgrade the catcher position. After being linked to the likes of Travis d'Arnaud and Higashioka, the Rays may need to pivot, which makes Jansen an interesting target.

Although Jansen has never been much in terms of batting average, he is a proven home run hitter who could help a Rays lineup that struggled to score in 2024. Jansen has also enjoyed success against the Rays in the past, so perhaps having him on their team could take that threat away from another club.

#2 - San Diego Padres

Speaking of Kyle Higashioka, the San Diego Padres will need to replace the valuable stats they lost with his departure. While Danny Jansen may not be on the level that Higashioka was in 2024 when he racked up 17 homers, he is a more than serviceable replacement. Jansen could have the chance to create a solid platoon with Luis Campusano in 2025.

#3 - Chicago Cubs

The Chicago Cubs have been in the market for a catching upgrade ever since Willson Contreras made the move to the St. Louis Cardinals. Although they have one of the top catching prospects making his way up through their system in the form of Moises Ballesteros, however, he may not be MLB-ready yet.

Enter Danny Jansen who could serve as a short-term option as the team looks to reach to playoffs in 2025. They have already added Matt Thaiss this offseason. However, Jansen has been better throughout his career and could supplant him on the depth chart.