David Fry Makes Catcher Return, Eyes Super Utility Role

Guardians hope Fry can resume versatile role after injury-plagued seasons

Feb. 24, 2026 at 9:55pm

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David Fry, a versatile player for the Cleveland Guardians, made his return to catcher during a spring training game on Sunday, marking a significant milestone in his recovery from a series of injuries that sidelined him for much of the past two seasons. The Guardians are counting on Fry to contribute both defensively and offensively as a super utility player in the upcoming season.

Why it matters

Fry's ability to play multiple positions, including catcher, first base, third base, and the corner outfield spots, has been valuable to the Guardians in the past. His return to catching duties signals progress in his recovery and could be crucial for the team's flexibility and success in the upcoming season, as they look to bounce back from an offensively-challenged 2025 campaign.

The details

During the 2023 season and the first half of 2024, Fry demonstrated his versatility, earning All-Star honors. However, a mid-2024 arm injury led to Tommy John surgery, sidelining him until June 2025. Upon his return, Fry struggled as a designated hitter and suffered a facial injury later that season. Now healthy, Fry is focused on re-establishing himself as a catcher, with some time also spent at first base during spring training.

  • On Sunday, Fry took the field as a catcher for five innings during the Guardians' spring training victory over the Athletics.
  • Fry's last two seasons included a mix of successes and challenges, with his arm injury and subsequent surgery occurring in 2024.
  • Fry returned to action in June 2025 but suffered a facial injury later that season.

The players

David Fry

A versatile player for the Cleveland Guardians who has experience at catcher, first base, third base, and the corner outfield spots.

Terry Francona

Former manager of the Cleveland Guardians who frequently utilized Fry's adaptability by starting him as catcher and then shifting him or employing him as a pinch-hitter.

Stephen Vogt

Current manager of the Cleveland Guardians who is expected to continue leveraging Fry's flexibility in the upcoming season.

Tarik Skubal

Pitcher whose fastball caused a facial injury to Fry in the 2025 season.

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What they’re saying

“So cool, after a long rehab process, being able to get back there. The boys threw really, really well. It made my job a lot easier. It was just a lot of fun to be back out there.”

— David Fry (MLB.com)

What’s next

The Guardians plan to focus much of Fry's spring training on catching duties, with some time also spent at first base, as they look to leverage his versatility in the upcoming season.

The takeaway

Fry's return to catching duties is a significant milestone in his recovery and could be crucial for the Guardians' flexibility and success in the 2026 season, as they look to bounce back from an offensively-challenged 2025 campaign.