IVAN RODRIGUEZ Is he the best catcher ever?(Texas Rangers catcher)(Brief Article)

Rangers' receiver has earned praise from many experts for his all-around abilities on defense as well as offense

IVAN RODRIGUEZ PICKED UP ANOTHER BAUBLE TO ADD TO THE TROPHY CASE LAST season. The Rangers' catcher received an award for garnering the most votes in fan balloting for the 2000 All-Star Game. "It's an honor for me," Rodriguez said. "I'm very happy for that. I never expected in my career that would happen. That means a lot for me."

The trophy can take its place next to Rodriguez' 1999 American League MVP award, his nine consecutive Gold Gloves and his six Silver Slugger awards.

While perhaps not as prestigious as the others, the honor for drawing the most All-Star votes is nevertheless significant. It indicates that baseball fans throughout the country recognize what the other achievements prove: That Rodriguez is the best catcher in the game today, and perhaps the best ever to squat behind the plate.

"He's the best," said Joe Torre, the manager of the Yankees. "Johnny Bench was that one catcher who used to get all that recognition. But Ivan, he's done it batting average-wise, power-wise, and you change your whole offensive scheme when he's the catcher whether you're going to steal a lot because he's dominant in that area. It's very unusual to be a catcher and be that effective both offensively and defensively."

Modesty forbids Rodriguez from talking about his place in history.

"I don't consider myself the best catcher," he said. "I just consider myself another player in the game. I don't want to talk about myself. I'm just trying to do my best."