When Francisco Cervelli could barely breathe in his new catcher's mask, he asked his backup for help. Cervelli, who switched to a hockey-style mask shortly before going on the disabled list for the Pirates last month, tried on Elias Diaz's mask to see if it made a difference.
It was lighter, but Cervelli is resistant to the change. He has trouble seeing at times, and it still feels heavy compared to his old cage. However, it's one way the 32-year-old catcher is trying to better protect himself from foul balls and, in turn, prolonging his career in the major leagues.
"I got hit three times in a week," Cervelli told DKPittsburghSports.com. "Each was in a weird spot; two in my jaw. I had to try something new. You never know if it will work. This is better."
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