Contreras’ injury highlights the danger of big league catchers moving closer to home plate

By JAY COHEN
AP Baseball Writer

When Willson Contreras was struck on his left arm by a swing, it was felt by former and current catchers all over the major leagues. Contreras’ broken left forearm was a scary reminder of the increasing danger for catchers who have moved closer to the plate over the years in an effort to steal strikes at the bottom of the zone — and sometimes even lower. When a hitter with a long swing stands at the back at the box, there is precious little room to maneuver. St. Louis manager Oliver Marmol says “The risk is high. We just experienced it.”