Two weeks ago, we discussed who would be a good fit for catcher Humberto Quintero, who had been designated for assignment by the Astros on March 31. It turns out he cleared waivers and was outrighted to AAA Round Rock, where he played just one game before being recalled. He went 2 for 4 with a double before being DFA’d again, this time to make room for Kaz Matsui.
Astros GM Ed Wade on the situation: "We think he’s a big league catcher, has big league ability, but we can’t carry three catchers." That’s a very insightful statement. No, you can’t carry three catchers if you’re stocking 12 pitchers. It’s just that I’d far rather keep the 28-year-old guy with plus defense over the 39-year-old who hasn’t been good in a very long time.
Last time around, we had talked about the Red Sox and the Giants as possible suitors. The Orioles were a possibility, though the timing might not be right. They’d have to unload Ramon Hernandez first, and he’s off to a horrible start. The Reds were brought up in the comments, and that seems to make sense, too. If Paul Bako’s OBP doesn’t drop 100 points over his next 70 at bats, I might eat my shoe.
You’d think the Yankees might be interested, given the injuries to Jorge Posada and Jose Molina. But Posada won’t hit the DL — and could be catching again within the next few days — and Molina will be back in due time. Plus, Chad Moeller has been filling in admirably (same disclaimer with him as with Bako).
Posted by Joe Pawlikowski, who writes for River Ave. Blues, a Yankees blog. Rumors are slow this time of year, so if you see something, say something.
