SI PLAYERS POLL

Who is the best defensive catcher in the major leagues?

[ Based on a survey of 450 MLB players ]

Mike Matheny 41%
Giants

Ivan Rodriguez 34%
Tigers (right)

Jason Varitek 4%
Red Sox

Bengie Molina 4%
Angels

For complete results and a breakdown of the poll go to SI.com/scorecard.

FAST FACTS: Matheny has won three Gold Gloves, and in 2003, when he was a Cardinal, he did not commit an error in 138 games.... Matheny got 56% of the votes of other catchers. Rodriguez (a record 11 Gold Gloves) got 22% from catchers.... The Astros' Brad Ausmus was fifth in the overall voting (3%).

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AL TIELEMANS

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DAVID E. KLUTHO