The Rockies announced that they have claimed catcher/infielder Tony Wolters off waivers from the Indians. To clear a spot on the 40-man roster, right-hander Adam Ottavino (who is recovering from Tommy John surgery) has been transferred to the 60-day disabled list. Patrick Saunders of the Denver Post first reported that the waiver claim would happen (Twitter link).
Wolters, 23, was a third-round pick of the Indians back in 2010 and spent the 2015 season with Cleveland’s Double-A affiliate, where he struggled to a .209/.290/.280 batting line in 271 plate appearances. However, he brings a rare skill-set to the table, as a former shortstop that shifted behind the plate in 2013 but still plays the middle infield on occasion. Wolters is a career .258/.335/.349 hitter in the minors, and he consistently rated among Cleveland’s top 30 prospects in the eyes of Baseball America from 2010-15. BA noted last winter that the move behind the plate didn’t do his offense any favors, but the Rockies will attempt to get his bat back up to speed in an effort to eventually reap the benefits of Wolters’ rare breed of defensive versatility.
What is it that baseball people see in this guy? He has done very little for the Indians, who put him on the 40-man last year, then didn’t take him off of it last fall. Don’t get me wrong, I wish him the best, but I really don’t see why he belongs on anyone’s 40 man roster. He doesn’t hit and he doesn’t seem to field, either.
It’s always possible he can’t make it out of spring training and loses his spot to someone else. Not a bad claim considering it was ottavino just going to the dl.
Versatility is important with players that project as a utility player. Wolters has been off the Indians top 30 list awhile now. Therefore he projects as a rare bench player that could play C/2B/3B/SS & bats left-handed. That fits a National League team like the Rockies. Too bad the Indians couldn’t make a deal and get compensation for Wolters. Obviously today is the first day teams can use the DL & the Rockies took advantage with Ottavino coming off T.J. surgery. I think Wolters is a versatile prospect who could become a solid bench player for the Rockies in the future.
Quick bat, lefty power, very good athlete. Worth a free lottery ticket, for sure.
I swear i read that Ottavino got DFA and waived, thank god that’s not the case