Pirates catching prospect Diaz

Diaz has become so adept at playing the position that he has won the 2015 Captain’s Catcher Award from Baseball America for being the best defensive catcher in the minor leagues.

Diaz, 25, will begin the season at Class AAA Indianapolis but a sign that the Pirates feel he could be ready to be their starting catcher next year is that they have not entered into contract extension talks with Francisco Cervelli, who becomes eligible for free agency at the end of the season.

Right-hander Tyler Glasnow, the organization’s top prospect, finished last season at Indianapolis and raves about Diaz.

Diaz, though, takes special pride in his ability to work with his pitchers.

However, Diaz worked hard to improve his English and now is able to speak to his pitchers and teammates without hesitancy.

Diaz’s hitting may have improved as dramatically over the last three years after he struggled mightily at the plate during his first three seasons in the United States.

Diaz batted .279 in 2013 with high Class A Bradenton, a combined .312 with Altoona and Indianapolis in 2014 and .271 at Indy last season.