Catcher Gabriel Moreno is becoming a more well-rounded and key contributor for the Arizona Diamondbacks this season. The backstop’s performance has been a significant positive for them since the team picked him up in a trade in December 2022.
Gabriel Moreno Becoming More Well-Rounded Catcher for D-Backs
Not Long as a Backup
After the trade with the Toronto Blue Jays, he began the 2023 season as a backup to Carson Kelly. He became the primary catcher midway through the season after Kelly was designated for assignment. Moreno would demonstrate his defensive skills and finish with a caught-stealing rate of 39%, an MLB best. Another significant statistic saw him leading all catchers in defensive runs saved with 20. Along with those numbers, he has the ability to call an excellent game. He also took charge of the defense on the field, which led to his winning the 2023 NL Gold Glove Award. He became the first Diamondbacks catcher to win that award.
Becoming More than Defense
Moreno is widely recognized as one of the most effective defensive catchers in the game. Those defensive skills, especially his blocking, framing, and throwing abilities, have contributed to his overall value on the field. However, it has been his offensive potential that is coming around for him. Already known for his skill to hit for average, he continues to work on his contact proficiency and bat speed. He has adjusted to selecting pitches better suited for his swing, which has led him to put the ball all over the outfield.
Not Considered a Power Hitter
Moreno, although not considered a power hitter, he has shown he can provide it when needed. He hit his first home run of the season—a grand slam—in a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers on May 8. That grand slam improved his numbers against the Dodgers. He is holding a .315 batting average against the team. In 23 regular-season and playoff games against the Dodgers, he has 23 hits, five home runs, and 21 RBI.
🗣 GRAND SLAM DE GABRIEL MORENO 🗣 pic.twitter.com/Pg9cTA8RiL
— MLB Español (@mlbespanol) May 9, 2025
Growth and Potential
Moreno’s journey for the Diamondbacks shows his growth and potential. Already an esteemed asset behind the plate and in the clubhouse, he is continually refining his game-calling and communication with the pitching staff. He also wants to be considered a respected offensive threat.
Complete Impact
Moreno’s defensive contributions and the development of his offensive potential make him a complete impact player for the Diamondbacks. Look for him to continue playing a significant role in the team’s success, both defensively and offensively. His potential to be a well-rounded catcher benefits the team now and into the future.
Gabriel Moreno’s Excellent Future
Gabriel Moreno has an excellent future with the Diamondbacks. He is a significant member of the team’s young core. In addition, he is not qualified for arbitration until after the 2026 season and won’t be a free agent until 2029. This gives him time to contribute to the team as he further develops his skills.
A strong claim can be made that Moreno is the most impactful position player on the team. He wants to be that and more for this organization. He wants to be part of the group of players to get this team back in the playoffs and, this time, bring home a World Series championship.
