Red Sox Sign Catcher Matt Thaiss: A Look at His MLB Journey

Boston adds versatile backstop with experience across multiple organizations

Apr. 11, 2026 at 6:55pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a baseball catcher in motion, with sharp planes of color and overlapping perspectives, conveying the dynamic nature of the sport.A cubist interpretation of a catcher's dynamic movements, reflecting the versatility and adaptability that Matt Thaiss brings to the Red Sox's roster.Boston Today

The Boston Red Sox have reportedly signed catcher Matt Thaiss to a minor league deal with a big league camp invitation. Thaiss, a left-handed catcher, has an impressive MLB background, having been drafted by the Los Angeles Angels in 2016 and making his debut in 2019. After stints with the Cubs, White Sox, and Rays, the 27-year-old is now joining the Red Sox organization.

Why it matters

The Red Sox have been looking to bolster their catching depth, and the addition of Thaiss provides them with an experienced and versatile option. Thaiss has shown the ability to contribute both behind the plate and in the infield, giving the Red Sox flexibility with their roster.

The details

Thaiss was originally drafted by the Los Angeles Angels in 2016 and made his MLB debut in 2019. After spending several seasons with the Angels, he was designated for assignment in late 2024, leading to brief stints with the Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox. Thaiss then joined the Tampa Bay Rays in 2025, where he finished the season with 60 major league appearances and solid stats, before electing free agency in September.

  • Thaiss was drafted by the Los Angeles Angels in 2016.
  • Thaiss made his MLB debut with the Angels in 2019.
  • Thaiss was designated for assignment by the Angels in late 2024.
  • Thaiss had brief stints with the Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox in 2024.
  • Thaiss joined the Tampa Bay Rays in 2025, where he finished the season with 60 major league appearances.
  • Thaiss elected free agency in September 2025.
  • The Boston Red Sox have now signed Thaiss to a minor league deal with a big league camp invitation in 2026.

The players

Matt Thaiss

A 27-year-old left-handed catcher who has played for the Los Angeles Angels, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, and Tampa Bay Rays over the course of his MLB career.

Boston Red Sox

The professional baseball team based in Boston, Massachusetts, who have signed Matt Thaiss to a minor league deal with a big league camp invitation.

Los Angeles Angels

The professional baseball team based in Anaheim, California, who drafted Matt Thaiss in 2016 and he made his MLB debut with them in 2019.

Chicago Cubs

The professional baseball team based in Chicago, Illinois, who had a brief stint with Matt Thaiss in 2024 after he was designated for assignment by the Angels.

Chicago White Sox

The professional baseball team based in Chicago, Illinois, who also had a brief stint with Matt Thaiss in 2024 after he was designated for assignment by the Angels.

Tampa Bay Rays

The professional baseball team based in St. Petersburg, Florida, who signed Matt Thaiss in 2025 and he finished the season with 60 major league appearances.

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What they’re saying

“Thaiss has shown the ability to contribute both behind the plate and in the infield, giving the Red Sox flexibility with their roster.”

— Colin Keane, Contributing Journalist, NESN

What’s next

Thaiss will join the Red Sox for spring training and compete for a spot on the major league roster. His versatility and experience across multiple organizations could make him a valuable addition to the Red Sox's catching depth.

The takeaway

The Red Sox's signing of Matt Thaiss represents a savvy move to bolster their catching corps with an experienced and versatile player who has shown the ability to contribute at the major league level. Thaiss's journey through multiple organizations could provide valuable insights and depth to the Red Sox's roster.