Could Pete Kozma play backup catcher for St. Louis Cardinals?

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In a way to find some depth behind the plate, the St. Louis Cardinals are exploring the idea of using infielders Pete Kozma and Greg Garcia as a backup emergency catcher.

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Over the past few years, the duties of backup emergency catcher went to utility infielder Daniel Descalso. Descalso is no longer an option for the job since he is now with the Colorado Rockies.

MLB.com beat writer Jenifer Langosch reported on Sunday that the two infielders are amongst those players being considered.

The Cardinals would prefer to use starting catcher Yadier Molina or backup catcher Tony Cruz. If neither were available due to extreme circumstances, the Cardinals would like to have some options available. The Cardinals have no current plans to give their infielders actual playing time behind the plate during Grapefruit League action.

“We had to know that there was somebody on the bench who could get behind the plate,” Matheny said according to MLB.com.

Pete Kozma, the team’s regular shortstop in 2013, is out of options so he’s going to do everything he can to make the Opening Day roster when the club heads north from Jupiter. He plans to work with Molina and Cruz over the next few weeks.

“I know how to call a game,” Kozma said according to MLB.com. “I can see all of Yadi’s signs. Whenever he makes a mound visit, I’m right there…Getting back there and actually doing it, the ball will be a little different than being at the plate or seeing it. I will be able to see a lot more.”

If Kozma doesn’t make the team, he will be designated for assignment and have to clear waivers before another team is able to claim him from the Cardinals.

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