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So, Maile has a big opportunity in front of him. If Martin stays true to his word, he will probably play more games in the majors than ever before.

Defensively, Maile is outstanding, particularly calling a game. Almost without fail last season, whenever he was in the lineup, he was loudly praised by that day’s starter. But his struggles at the plate took a toll and Maile realizes he has to produce with the bat or his long-term future as a major-league catcher may be in jeopardy, though manager John Gibbons is still a big fan.

“When he came back from his knee injury, I thought he swung the bat much better in that final month,” said Gibbons. “There were a number of times when he got nothing to show for it (even though) he barrelled most of the balls. But in that role (as a backup catcher), I like a guy that does a great job with the pitching staff and he proved to us last year that he can do that.”

“I think we need him,” added Jays starter Marco Estrada. “He’s a guy I liked pitching to. Even if the bat isn’t there, he brings a lot to the table when he’s behind the dish. He calls really good games and he’s got a cannon, so not too many guys try to steal off him. It’s a lot more than just hitting.”

Maile started his minor-league career in the Tampa Bay Rays organization with a reputation as a catcher who was good defensively and could hit. He hit no lower than .268 in his first three years in the minors, with some pop. It hasn’t followed him to The Show, however.

“The numbers that I put up (last year), somebody should be able to do with one arm and one leg,” he said. “It wasn’t good. I’ve admitted that many times. I’m not going to stop admitting it, but I am going to forget about it too.”