Are Giants stepping up their pursuit of a new catcher?

Just read this from Andrew Baggarly’s blog, “Extra Baggs:”

The Giants didn’t expect Eli Whiteside to be a cleanup hitter. They didn’t expect him to replace Buster Posey’s offense. But Brian Sabean said the club deserved to give Whiteside a shot to catch, to “see what it looked like.” It’s not looking so great. Whiteside hasn’t gotten much zip on throws to second base. He’s allowed a few pitches to clank off his glove. He is a very good backup catcher, but I’m getting indications (from a few folks, too) that the Giants are ramping up their pursuit of another catcher. Maybe even two. I’m not sure Pudge Rodriguez will be swapping uniforms this week, or at all. He’s up there in age, yes. Heck, his kid was drafted today. He still brings a lot of energy to the position, but overall, he’s nowhere close to the star he used to be. But Pudge isn’t the only catcher out there. For now, expect Whiteside to continue to get most of the starts. He told me the first few days were tough on his body, as you’d imagine. He isn’t used to catching every day. But it’s gotten better and his right elbow (which was strained and caused him to miss several weeks this spring) wasn’t bothering him.

I wouldn’t mind seeing Pudge in a Giants uni myself. Even at .205/.255/.330, he’s still hitting better than Whiteside (.164/.266/.255) and backup Chris Stewart (0-for-9 with a walk) — combined.

But, I wouldn’t trade for his bat.

What Pudge brings behind the plate is much more valuable.

At age 39, the 14-time All-Star and 13-time Gold Glove winner is a born leader. Besides, we’re talking one year. Someone to hold down the fort until Buster returns.

Who would you like to see the Giants trade for?