Call to the pen
Fansided

Former Houston Astros utility man Marwin Gonzalez heading to Japan

By David Hill

Sep 18, 2021; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros designated hitter Marwin Gonzalez (9) reacts after hitting a line drive for the final out of the inning with men in scoring position against the Arizona Diamondbacks in the fourth inning at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 18, 2021; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros designated hitter Marwin Gonzalez (9) reacts after hitting a line drive for the final out of the inning with men in scoring position against the Arizona Diamondbacks in the fourth inning at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports /
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Marwin Gonzalez has not found much success since leaving the Houston Astros.

The utility man was a key part of the Astros success, a Swiss Army knife that could be used in any situation. His defensive versatility and the pop in his bat made Gonzalez a coveted free agent after the 2018 season, with the Twins hoping that he would continue in that role when he signed.

Former Houston Astros utility man Marwin Gonzalez hoping to resurrect career in NPB

Instead, Gonzalez fell apart after leaving the Astros. While he had a solid first season in Minnesota, he has not been the same player since the 2019 season ended. Gonzalez has posted a .198/.272/.313 batting line in his 713 plate appearances with 16 homers and 25 doubles since the start of the 2020 season as he has bounced through four different organization, including a return to the Astros.

Gonzalez is not only set to join his fifth different team for 2023, but will also be heading to a completely different continent. According to Yahoo Japan, Gonzalez is set to sign with the Orix Buffaloes for the upcoming season.

An 11 year major league veteran, Gonzalez is just 34 years old. It is entirely possible that, if he is able to put together a solid showing for the Buffaloes, he could find his way back to the majors. His defensive versatility is still valuable and, despite his struggles, he does still have a bit of pop in his bat.

But it all depends on his performance in Japan. Another rough season may essentially mark the end of his major league career. However, there is always a chance that a different environment and a different approach can get his career back on track.

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Marwin Gonzalez has found a new team for the 2023 season. The former Houston Astros utility man has signed with the NPB Orix Buffaloes.

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