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Jeff Mathis will be Miami's backup catcher again in 2016.
The veteran backstop has signed a one-year, $1 million deal to return to the Marlins next season, according to MLB.com's Joe Frisaro.
The #Marlins have reached agreement w catcher Jeff Mathis, 1 yr, $1 million. Returns as backup #HotStove
— Joe Frisaro (@JoeFrisaro) December 18, 2015
Mathis was acquired in the 2012 blockbuster trade with the Blue Jays and has served as the Marlins' backup catcher for the last three seasons. At 32, he batted .161/.214/.290 to complement two home runs and 12 RBIs but is known for his plus defense and ability to manage a young pitching staff.
J.T. Realmuto is expected to be the Marlins' starting catcher again next season. He has developed into a consistent young catcher and will now be joined again by Mathis, which should continue to help him improve moving forward.
The Marlins reportedly had expressed interest in retaining Mathis since the end of the season.