Mike DiFelice

Full Name: Michael William DiFelice

Number: 8

Position: C

Born: May 28, 1969, in Philadelphia

Height: 6-2

Weight: 205

Bats: Right

Throws: Right

High School: Bearden (Knoxville, Tenn.)

Transactions: Selected by St. Louis Cardinals organization in 11th round of free-agent draft (June 3, 1991)...

1998 Season

Mike DiFelice, who came to the Devil Rays as a first-round expansion- draft pick, was labeled as a strong defensive catcher who had trouble with the bat. That's pretty much what he turned out to be. DiFelice got plenty of playing time, starting 75 games, but couldn't win the job outright even though John Flaherty had the worst season of his career.

Hitting, Baserunning & Defense

After two seasons as a backup, DiFelice has defined his level of ability. He's a .230 hitter who will come through with an occasional big hit. DiFelice seemed easy to fool at the plate and grounded into too many outs. Even as catchers go, he's ery slow, which doesn't help his offense. What DiFelice does well is receive the ball and throw it. He ranked third in the American League by throwing out 37 percent of basestealers last year. He's tough behind the plate, though his 13 passed balls made him a bit of a liability.

1999 Outlook

DiFelice seems headed for bench duty again. That role won't be assured if Flaherty comes back strong or late-season pickup Julio Mosquera warrants an opportunity. DiFelice simply needs to deliver more offense.

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