Houston Astros finally make commitment to Martin Maldonado
By David Hill
After trading for him in each of the past two seasons, the Houston Astros finally committed Martin Maldonado.
It is obvious that the Houston Astros have an appreciation for Martin Maldonado. The Astros traded for Maldonado at the trade deadline in 2018, adding the defensive stalwart in a trade with Patrick Sandoval being sent to the Angels. Then, in 2019, the Astros did the same thing, acquiring Maldonado from the Cubs in exchange for Tony Kemp. Chicago had acquired Maldonado just two weeks prior, sending Mike Montgomery to the Royals for his services.
On Friday, the Astros finally committed to their backstop. Maldonado signed a two year deal worth $7 million with Houston, reportedly passing up more lucrative offers to return.
C Martin Maldonado has agreed to a two-year, $7M deal with the Astros, per a source. Maldonado had multiple offers, but took less money to return to Houston.
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) December 21, 2019
Presumably, this finalizes the Astros moves behind the plate. They had signed backup catcher Dustin Garneau to a deal worth $650,000 for the upcoming season, but he could simply be organizational depth, as he has shuttled between AAA and the majors each of the past five years.
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If Maldonado is the new starting catcher in Houston, they will take a major step back in regards to offensive production. Never a strong hitter, he produced a .213/.293/.378 batting line last season, with 12 homers and 19 doubles. However, his .711 OPS in an Astros uniform is the best mark of his career.
Maldonado’s true value comes with his glove. The 2017 AL Gold Glove winner, he is regarded as one of the best defensive catchers in the game, lauded for his strong arm and pitch framing results. For a team that has lost Gerrit Cole and Wade Miley, Maldonado could be a boost to a younger pitching staff.
This also gives the Astros a way to save some money. Their young core is approaching the end of team control, as George Springer is a free agent after this season, while Roberto Osuna and Carlos Correa are in their second arbitration go-around. It is time to consider extensions, which could push the Astros budget to the limits. Maldonado, at just $3.5 million per year, is a very cost-effective addition to the lineup.
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The Houston Astros like what Martin Maldonado brings to the team. This offseason, they finally committed to him.