Texas Rangers Claim Catcher Juan Centeno Off Waivers

Adding catching depth is a must for the Texas Rangers this off-season. They upgraded the position on Monday when they claimed Juan Centeno off waivers.

The Texas Rangers brought dpeth to the catcher position by claiming Juan Centeno off waivers from the Houston Astros. This move now puts the Rangers Major League roster at 38. What kind of impact can Centeno make in Arlington?

Centeno didn’t spend too much time in Houston last season. He hit .231 with two home runs and four RBI in 22 games. He did much better during his time in the minors and crushed the ball in Triple-A last season.

In 65 games with the Triple-A club, Centeno hit .311 with one home run and 33 RBI in 65 games. He’s not known for his power, but has strong plate discipline. He walked 16 times with just 37 strikeouts in Triple-A.

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The 28-year-old Centeno has played in parts of seven Major League seasons. He’s played just a total of 101 games most came with the Minnesota Twins. He played 55 games with them in 2015 and hit .261 with 25 RBI.

This move isn’t much more than a backup signing or depth move. Centeno has thrown at just 13 percent of baserunners during his Major League career. He has some helpful skills, but really nothing more than a backup catcher.

The Rangers now have four catchers on their 40-man roster. Robinson Chirinos is the starting until further notice. He put together a strong second half last season, and the Rangers will likely roll with him as the starter in 2018.

Behind Chirinos is Brett Nicholas and Jose Trevino. Nicholas is 29 years old and is likely nothing more than a backup catcher. He has a little more power than most backups, but shouldn’t be counted on.

The Rangers recently moved Trevino onto the 40-man roster. The 24-year-old is coming off a strong season in Double-A last season. He has a chance to become the next starting catcher in Arlington.

Next: Rangers Sign Veteran Starter Doug Fister

The Centeno signing gives the Rangers depth, but it would be surprising to see much of him in Arlington next season.