The Rangers are set to bolster their catching corps with the addition of José Herrera, a 29-year-old catcher, via a minor league deal. This move comes as a strategic response to the team's recent non-tendering of Jonah Heim and the two-year agreement with Danny Jansen. Herrera, a switch-hitter, brings versatility to the plate, but his defensive skills have been a point of contention.
Herrera's journey in Major League Baseball began with the Diamondbacks in 2013, where he spent over a decade as a depth catcher. His time in Arizona was marked by a steady rotation between the big leagues and Triple-A, exhausting his three option years. The Diamondbacks eventually signed James McCann, shifting Herrera to a more limited role.
In the past four seasons, Herrera's plate appearances have been sparse, with only 562 at-bats and a modest .200/.280/.259 line. His defensive capabilities, particularly in blocking and controlling the running game, have been recognized by outlets like Baseball Prospectus and Statcast. However, his framing skills have been criticized as subpar.
The Rangers' decision to sign Herrera is a calculated move, providing depth without occupying a roster spot. If Jansen or Kyle Higashioka sustains an injury, Herrera's experience as a backup catcher becomes a valuable asset. This strategy showcases the team's ability to adapt and strengthen their roster without compromising flexibility.
